Vale Life Magazine May/June 2013 by Charlie Trott

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May/June 2013

Inside:

Ginge is the word

Redheads have more fun

Sparring partners

See our website at: www.vale-life.co.uk

Beauty Spot checks in at Champneys

Spice up your life

New curry house aims to be different

The high life

Set your sights on Wendover Woods

Free local listings for events and businesses Cover picture: The Haddenham Hoofers

Penny, Ruby, Hero, Matt, Naomi, Amanda and much, much more... w dinner for Two at Scottâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Restaurant, Saunderton w w Britainâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best heritage pubs book w Tickets to Homebuilding show w

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info@ridgewaykitchens.co.uk | 01844 279 900 | www.ridgewaykitchens.co.uk Competitive pricing info@ridgewaykitchens.co.uk | 01844 279 900 | www.ridgewaykitchens.co.uk Vale Life : Feb/Mar 2013 throughout the year

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From inspiration... Established in 1985, Woodcrafts provides a professional and personal service in the design and build of bespoke kitchens and furniture. Our complete service includes consultation on everything from work surfaces and flooring to the best appliances to compliment your project. Kitchens; bedroom and bathroom furniture; free-standing or fitted units and multi-media rooms can all be crafted to your own specifications.

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See our work at: Cast Iron Range Cookers, Princes Risborough and at the AGA Shop, Thame Woodcrafts of Oxford, Unit 4a, Woodway Farm, Bicester Road, Long Crendon, Bucks, HP18 9EP Telephone: 01844 201670 Email: mike@woodcraftsofoxford. freeserve.co.uk Web: www.woodcraftsofoxford.co.uk

ü Family Business est 1987. ü Premier Dealers for seven manufacturers including Clearview & Charnwood Stoves. ü Extensive work with prestige, listed & thatched properties. ü In-‐house HETAS installation & fireplace remodelling team ü Sweeping and stove servicing ü Showroom by appointment.

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northmillstoves.co.uk Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

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Frank Sinatra Tribute Night Stay overnight in the DeVere Milton Hill House In Oxfordshire with breakfast and dinner included and a fantastic live tribute act. Scenic drives to and from the hotel. Sunday October 27th ONLY £89 Single Room supp. £15.

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Vale Life : May/June 2013

Great rates Amazing results To advertise in Vale Life Magazine Call Charlie on 07702 006218

Spread the word across The Vale: see: www.vale-life.co.uk for details

8 9 11 13 15 16 17 18 22 25 26 28

Style file

You be the Judge

Unique boutique

Fascinating fax

Daddy Cool

Seeing is believing

Inspiring art

Sound & vision

Dear dad

Tomayto Tomaaahto

Sparring partners

Pigheaded

The Muddy Stilettos Awards

Great reception

What’s the fast way?

Spice up your life

Set your heart a-flutter

Read all about it

Ginge is the word

Literally hidden gem

Funky cool cucina

The high life

Sound the retreat

Totally MAD

Art of the community

Katy Dyer gets all dressed up Wearable fashions, smart and casual Father’s day gifts with 20% off Beautiful things, locally made Penny’s heart belongs to Daddy Day at Champneys for Beauty Spot 2013 results hot off the press! Fad diets and fasting

Is your decor bugging you? Redheads have more fun Italy’s favourite kitchen

An Englishman’s shed is his castle

30 It’s a living thing

When is a conservatory not a conservatory?

End of era

ur Hungry Gent Matt Brown is leaving us. It’s a sad moment as Matt has been part of Vale Life since the second edition. Back in June 2010 I did a feature on Matt and his breakfast show at Heart FM. In those days the station had studios on the outskirts of Oxford and he kindly invited me in to see him and partner Giselle in action. It was a lot of fun and shortly afterwards he suggested an idea for an

ongratulations to the following Mar/Apr edition competition winners! Hopefully your prizes will have arrived by now, let us know if not. Commiserations to those who weren’t so lucky - read on though for more

irreverent column about food. Despite having to get up at 4am for his radio show and being married with a couple of youngsters to look after, Matt has done a brilliant job, in regularly delivering his witty, slightly quirky views on food and life, both on time and in perfect English, with only the occasional spelling mistake or profanity to keep me on my toes. He is a natural writer with a vivid imagination and it is no surprise that he has now scored himself a publishing deal and is hard at work writing children’s

Getting off with new law firm Tring firm has the technology We all need video

Experts in installation

Ruby Rasa has the recipe

Matt’s pigs are pork on legs You’ll find a welcome in Weston New curry house raises the bar Sign up for Literary Club

Is now the time for a Slinky Minky So much to do up in the woods Manor’s festival of Music and Dance Waterside brings the people in mantle and will no longer be appearing in these hallowed pages. This issue’s column will be his final course, so to speak. He has promised to keep us informed of his progress, so I will pass on any news. Good luck Matt, many thanks, it’s been edible. Enjoy the magazine everyone, good luck in the competitions and happy reading!

Farewell Matt Brown books, when he’s not on the radio! Thus he has laid down his foodie

competitions inside this edition, including the chance to win: Tickets for The Homebuilding & Renovating Show, a copy of ‘Britain’s Best Heritage Pubs’ and a meal for two at Scott’s Restaurant, Saunderton. Last issue’s prizewinners were: Tickets to the Grand Designs Show:

Joanne Carbray, Haddenham; Janet Hodgkinson, Towersey; Judy Ferreira, Aylesbury; Wendy Foster, Launton; Elaine Graw, Aylesbury Linoprint of Thame Town Hall: Lynn Broadway, Thame KAPOW box: Gemma Wickert, Thame

Charlie Charlie Trott, Editor: editor@vale-life.co.uk A signed copy of Like A Shag On A Rock: John Boyle, Aylesbury; Brian Young, Hardwick; Sarah Gayley, Waddesdon Dinner for two at The Mole & Chicken: Linda Corstorphine, Ilmer Glyn Devey CD: Pauline Randall, Aylesbury

Front cover picture: The Haddenham Hoofers in action at Haddenham’s May Day celebrations Vale Life Magazine is designed and published by House of Mouse, 23 Glenham Road, Thame, Oxfordshire, OX9 3WD Telephone: 01844 261579 Mobile: 07702 006218 Website: www.vale-life.co.uk Email: editor@vale-life.co.uk Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of Vale Life. We cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies, omissions or late changes. No part of this publication may be reproduced without the permission of the publishers. Printed in the UK by The Magazine Printing Company www.magprint.co.uk

Vale Life : May/June 2013

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

with Katy Dyer

Personal stylist and fashion expert Katy scours our local boutiques and passes on tips and tricks for looking your best, plus the latest news on the high street trends...

ith the promise of a lovely something new in your special occasion outfit summer on the way, now is the (just steer clear of anything with the novelty time to look for the perfect factor). outfit for special occasions and Trends in men’s fashion tends to be more events. Summer weddings, Royal Ascot and cyclical and changes more gradual, but once garden party invitations all call for something you identify the key investment pieces which just a little bit special. But how to go about work for you, adding colour and updating choosing the perfect outfit? the look with current fashion pieces will You will of course need to check the dress mean you get the most out of your occasion code, and in recent years this has become dressing ensemble. stricter at many events – for the ladies is a For the ladies, there are some fabulous fascinator a hat? Gents - is a simple shirt dresses around this season. The “Mad Men”and tie going to cut the mustard – no on inspired sixties styles are great for those with both counts if you are going into the Royal an hourglass figure to show of the nippedEnclosure! So take a little time to check out in waist and teamed with some new-trend the rules…..is the venue indoors or out, pointed kitten heels, this look is a real winner. formal or informal and what time of day is it There are plenty of soft, floaty fabrics taking place. around too – paired with a neutral or contrast For the gents, don’t be afraid to add a little clutch you have a perfect look. For dresses colour. Used wisely, a key shade like teal with slim or no straps, choose a shrug or or red can add real style and a wrap with sparkle – a few sequins will va-va-voom to your outfit add glamour to your look and and add to your confidence provide a bit of coverage and levels. Add some of your own warmth, should it be needed. personality with design on ties Be sure to have the right lingerie, and cufflinks. accessories and shoes for your Just like the ladies, check out outfit – metallics are a great look, the dress code – formal, smartwork as a neutral with many colours casual or black tie? and are very much on-trend. Or With statement tailoring all be bold and check out some of the the buzz for men’s Spring/ current animal print to add a bit of Summer style, it’s a great drama. opportunity to check out If you occasion calls for a hat, new cuts and colourways there are a few tips that are worth Eton shirts from £110, Gallant, Thame – don’t be afraid to try remembering. Be sure to choose

Lamb 1887 Audrey Clutch from £99, Gallivant, Thame

Vale Life : May/June 2013

styles that have a brim no wider than your shoulders and take care with the colour – dark hats with wide rims can cause your face to be completely shadowed in photographs. Fascinators are easy to wear and are a great way to really add a bit of glamour to a pretty summer dress. l Katy Dyer is an awardwinning personal stylist and image consultant. From her home studio in Thame, she can help you discover the confidence to change or develop your personal or professional style and image - whether it’s a new career, a new stage in your life, finding the right outfit for a Luisa Cerano special occasion Spring Print Dress £269, or to completely Gallivant, reinvent your Thame look and make the most of you. For more details, visit www.katydyer.com or email: katy@katydyer.com

House Of Fraser Biba Red Dress

A little colour from Simon Carter clothing and accessories, Wendover

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

From weekend casuals and holiday wear to pretty outfits for events and special occasions, Gallivant’s luxury clothes, shoes and accessories are contemporary yet wearable for any age... “

t has always been our mission to offer beautiful clothes that are fashionable and also really stylish,” says Gallivant boutique owner, Heather Gant. “We like to introduce new trends in a wearable and accessible way. We love the runway’s passion for shimmer and shine, for instance, but we have embraced the look with gold and silver bags, metallic leather sports shoes by Ash and pretty gold Unisa sandals rather than top to toe glitter.” Heather says key trends for the Summer include: stripes, transparents and lace, and prints in all guises from jungle to florals and opticals - they are all to be found in store now, alongside a gorgeous collection of dresses for all occasions. “A must try is Italian label D.Exterior,” says Heather. “We love their beautiful oriental silk print this season.” You may have noticed Gallivant’s elegantly dressed windows. The boutique is located in Greyhound Walk, Thame, just a few yards from Waitrose, and the window displays change regularly, inspiring and tempting in equal doses! For those who love jeans, Gallivant stocks Paige (premium denim from Los Angeles), Armani, Moschino, NYDJ (the original

slimming jean) and an exciting new addition, IDA by Donna Ida, pictured right, which has been receiving a lot of hot press lately. If you are feeling adventurous why not try some trendy printed trousers or jeans, or, for a more subtle approach, these lime and silver print jeans, right, from Marc Cain Sport are rather lovely. If Riviera chic appeals, and it should now the sun is shining again, try a bold, floral, cotton print capri from Love Moschino Moschino’s casual diffusion line. “To team with jeans,” says Heather, “we have some lovely soft Ts and tops from the popular Velvet by Graeme and Spencer collection, and patent ballet flats from Bloch.” The Gallivant team is friendly and knowledgeable and are happy to help and advise if required. Whether you are looking for that perfect pair of jeans, your new season wardrobe or something fabulous Ash for a special event, don’t miss out on this unique Thame boutique. l Gallivant Boutique, 6 Greyhound Walk, Thame , Oxfordshire , OX9 3DY Tel: 01844 218097 Email: info@gallivant-thame.co.uk Website: www.gallivantboutique.co.uk

Coccinelle

D.Exterior

IDA by Donna Ida

Velvet: Marc Cain

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Spring Special Vale Life Reader Offer

A B C

15% off all stock, (excluding gold bullion bars)

Take this voucher with you to claim your discount Valid until 31/05/13

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Vale Life : May/June 2013

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Father’s Day is your chance to show dad you care. So this year, why not make it really special - forget the jokey gifts, go for a stylish present he can wear with pride and you’ll make his day...

endover’s Simon Carter boutique has rapidly become the place for style conscious gents to shop. The Simon Carter brand cleverly combines classic and contemporary styling with quality tailoring and a quirky, very British edge, to produce a range of clothing and accessories that look extremely chic and expensive, but are actually very reasonably priced. Furthermore Vale Life readers taking along our special ‘Father’s Day’ voucher between May 1st and June 15th, to buy their dad a gift for Father’s Day on June 16th, will qualify for an amazing 20% discount off all stock! Simon Carter also offers I Love Wendover loyalty card holders a 10% discount at their Wendover store, but this cannot be used in conjunction with the Vale Life offer. The Spring/Summer 2013 range has introduced some exciting new products. We particularly like the classic polo shirts which come in a range of bright and funky colours and sport a cool contrasting Liberty print trim around the buttonholes - great quality, quirky, stylish and a bit different, while competitively priced at £49 for one, £90 for two. “Our Liberty print shirts have proved very popular,” says store owner Fah. “We have some fabulous new patterns in, many based on original 60s designs and woven in super fine tana lawn cotton for a super luxury feel, sizes range from a 15” to 18” collar. They look great with our linen and cotton jackets!”

Trina and Shamus

Simon Carter suits epitomise the brands quirky stylishness. The luxury blue sharkskin two piece in Italian wool (page 8) has been a best seller this season - superb quality, beautifully tailored and extremely smart, it has a subtle presence and is great value at £395. For Father’s Day the Simon Carter collection of funky and fashionable accessories make gorgeous gifts. The West End cufflink comes in about 20 styles priced from £20 to £25, while West End watches are only £65. If you are pushing the boat out the new Simon Carter super slim wristwatch, with diamond embellished indices, is a man’s best friend at £350. There are only six stand-alone Simon Carter stores in the UK at present and Fah’s branch, run with partner James, at the top of Wendover High Street was the first ever UK Franchise. Fah is on hand to advise, assist and ensure customers have a great shopping experience: “I really enjoy helping customers explore their more adventurous side,” says Fah. “It may be just a subtle, stylish addition to their current look - a sparkly pair of crystal links, or a funky lining - or something bolder, a statement piece with a vivid coloured stripe or retro print, but it will be something special, different and of excellent quality which makes them feel really good when wearing it.” l Simon Carter, 6 South Street, Wendover, Buckinghamshire, HP22 6EB Tel: 01296 625277 Web: www.simoncarter.net Open Tue-Fri 10am-6.30pm, Sat 10am-5.30pm

Special Wendover store 20% off Father’s Day Gift Vale Life Reader Voucher! Simply present this voucher when you shop at Simon Carter, Wendover, before Father’s Day (Sunday June 16, 2013) and receive 20% off any purchase (Cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer)

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

The road to well The editor’s new keep fit regime is spluttering into action. Will he keep it up? Will it make any difference...

f you tuned in last edition you’ll know that my new exercise regime has got off to something of a slow start. I am failing dismally to get along to Racquets regularly enough, or at all really! I had my initial health assessment, and introduction to the equipment with Fitness Instructor Jack about six weeks ago and he has since written out a personal fitness routine for me. I have been to see him again and he took me through the exercises and equipment I am to be attempting. The idea is to tone up slightly, improve my core strength to help shift some lower back ache and do some aerobic work to improve general fitness of the heart, lungs, cholesterol level, etc.

Warming up on the rowing machine Jack suggested I start with a warm up on the rowing machine, then some stepping on the cross trainer and finally jogging on the treadmill. I have a programme to follow which should amount to about 20 minutes exercise to start with and ideally be done at least three times a week. As I progress the exercises can be made more challenging by upping the speed, distance or incline depending on which piece of apparatus I’m on. Then I have a programme for the weights

No I’m not having a quick rest this is toning the upper arms! room. Jack said to find my own level to start with as regards how much weight I lift. But suggested not going off too gung ho as by the time you are on your third set of ten they seem a lot heavier than at the start! I now know what I have to do... l Racquets Fitness Centre, North Street, Thame, Oxon, OX9 3TH Tel: 01844 261754 Email: info@racquets-fitness-centre.com Website: www.racquets-fitness-centre.com

CeX, Unit 1, Crown Buildings, High Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1SL Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Opening Hours Mon to Fri: 9.30am-6pm Saturdays: 9am-6pm Sundays: 11am-5pm

Buy, sell, exchange! At CeX you can buy, sell and exchange technology and entertainment products including DVDs, mobile phones, consoles, video games, computers, Blu Ray movies, digital electronics, laptops, cameras, iPhones, Blackberrys, iPods, xBox, iPad, Playstation...

We’re at the top of the High Street!

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Winner: Best Gift Shop

Visiting local artists during Bucks Open Studios inspired one couple to set up a new business promoting the work of artists and makers from the area. FROM opened on Thame’s Cornmarket some 18 months ago and has just been voted ‘Best Gift Shop’ in the Muddy Stilettos Awards... “

t’s a little weird,” says FROM’s Steve Stretton, “being invited into somebody’s lounge, kitchen, attic or shed to ‘take a look at their etchings’, but my wife Sarah and I have become quite used to the idea - there’s nothing untowards about it! “Walking around during Bucks Open Studios, looking at art, with your family, in your local area, is a wonderful thing to do. We met new, fascinating, talented people and saw

work that quite frankly knocked us out. And made us think. It seemed strange that so much great talent should be hidden away for 50 weeks of the year, only to become visible for 2 weeks in June (this year June 8th to 23rd). “I’m not from this area originally, and it struck me that the people of Bucks didn’t quite realise what they’d got. So much ability - in one area! The idea of a permanently visible place that

A selection of work, some with the artists responsible, currently available at FROM in Thame

The award-winning FROM shop at Thame

Ali Cockrean - Impressionist Painter FROM Haddenham

Janine Philips - Painter FROM Thame

Richard Ballantyne - Ceramicist FROM Buckinghamshire

Anna K Baldwin - Jewellery Maker FROM Haddenham

Laura Boswell - Printmaker FROM Winslow

could become a home for all this talent, open up the artists to a wider audience and offer their work for sale, excited Steve. The ‘FROM’ idea had started! Steve and Sarah both had successful careers in advertising and were working full-time in London. They began throwing ideas around and talking them over with friends at dinner parties. The concept was a store that sold work by local artists and artisans. All the work being accompanied by the stories behind the people who had created the pieces. It was to be called ‘FROM’ - short for ‘from round here’ and it was to be in Thame. “We’d tell people at dinner parties,” says Steve, “and everybody supported the idea, but we knew nothing about retail. We knew nothing about getting premises. Or dealing with suppliers. Or anything really! “We carried on talking to people at dinner parties and thankfully, at one of those dinner parties, we met somebody who lived and breathed retail. He loved the concept and wanted to make it happen for us. So Marcus Hardman became our third partner and finally, we could bring FROM to life. “We started by going back to the people we’d first encountered at Bucks Open Studios. They formed the basis of our early product offering. Beautiful art, photography, jewellery and sculpture, mixed in with more everyday, lifestyle items, such as cushions, candles and lotions. It’s developed from there. We can’t say we got it right from day one, but the local response has been fantastic. And gradually, over the last 18 months, we’ve got to understand our product mix and our artists better. We really love what we’ve got but we wouldn’t have had it without Bucks Open Studios.” Bucks Open Studios takes place from June 8th to 23rd. See pages 46 and 47 for more about the event, or for full listings check out the website at: www.bucksopenstudios.org.uk l FROM, 16 Cornmarket, Thame, Oxfordshire, OX9 2BW Tel: 01844 217998 Email: info@fromroundhere.com Website: www.fromroundhere.com

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

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f you’re in the market to spruce up your home or embark on a self-build journey, head along to The Southern Homebuilding and Renovating Show, returning to Sandown Park, Surrey from 29-30 June 2013. From daily seminars through to masterclasses and exhibitor consultations, visitors will receive guidance on how to build their own property or renovate an existing one, as well as discover the latest trends, products and pioneering eco technologies. The UK’s leading property experts such as Michael Holmes, editor-in-chief of Homebuilding and Renovating magazine, will be available for free individual appointments to discuss selfbuilding, home remodelling, design, sustainability, planning permission and even financial recommendations. New to the show this year is Bob Branscombe, one of the UK’s leading chartered surveyors, who recently worked on the Shard, Europe’s highest building. He will be bringing his knowledge of project and cost control to his free seminar daily sessions. With over 25 years

experience in both self-build and construction, Bob still remains excited and enthused by all buildings and harnesses a longtime obsession with hands on self-building. If you’d like a chance to win a pair of free tickets to the show, simply email your name, address and telephone number, along with the answer to the following question to: editor@vale-life.co.uk What kind of racing is Sandown Park known for? Winner to be drawn at random and notified by email by June 10. l For further information visit www.surrey.homebuildingshow.co.uk Standard tickets £8 advance or £12 on the door (U16s go free). Ticket hotline: 0845 851 1377. Opening times: Sat, June 29: 10am - 17pm, Sun, June 30: 10am - 4.30pm

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Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

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Column: Penny Harper ‘Thoughts of a small town girl’

ear Robert, Rob, Bob, Dad: bearded biology teacher extraordinaire; wit as dry as the Sahara; straight-taking; no-nonsense; cut to the chase; can’t do small-talk… have an imported beer instead and chill out. This is just to wish you a Happy Fathers’ Day from your only daughter, with an apology for bouncing your bonce off the car windscreen when you were trying to teach me to drive. Also, Daniel’s parents were NOT at home that time I told you they were. I know I complained about the orange camper van, and then even more about the poo-brown Saab but they really weren’t all that bad. And thinking about it, when you turned up at parents’ evening on your motorbike, looking like the RAC man, well, that was actually pretty cool. I could have done without you calling me by my nickname in front of all my school friends though. Thanks for letting me quit Judo

Penny and father

when I told you I was sick of being pulverised by Big Martin every Saturday afternoon, but for making me stick with it long enough to deck a bully. Thanks for the reserved judgement on my horrendous choices in boyfriends and for telling me ‘men are just plain stupid’ every time I got dumped. Thanks for instilling in me a love of the outdoors; for letting me stroke a newt and hold a toad and for sitting with me and watching the frogs drift out of the pond when we emptied the paddling pool into

it. Thanks for teaching me what an axolotl is and how electricity works and how to solve equations and what ‘pineapple’ is in French. Thanks for making me appreciate what a tomato really tastes like and how satisfying it is to pull a carrot out of the ground. Thanks for dragging my sulky backside across every inch of the country. It really wasn’t as bad as I made out. Remember when you’d just point at a lighthouse in the distance and announce we were walking there the next day? Pasties and iced buns and cheese and pickle sandwiches on the cliff-top used to make me forget that we’d walked so far my knees were bending the wrong way. Thanks for making me try everything at least once. Please don’t EVER make me eat tapioca again… or tell me how much you love eating frogspawn while you tuck into a can of it. And you’re wrong about one thing: gooseberries are what evil tastes like. Thank you for our weekly trips to the library and for giving me a passion for reading. I was so proud to dedicate my first children’s book

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Penny Harper

Small Town

Girl

to you and Mum. Thanks for not panicking that I don’t seem to have settled down much; for not hitting the roof when I quit my job (twice) and went travelling. Thanks for your patience... it’ll all be alright in the end. Thanks to you I’m a straighttalking, dry-witted, adventurous, newt-handling, competent tent putter-upper. Happy Father’s Day Dad, Love, Tub. X

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Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Amanda Trott

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Most of us are familiar with the name Champneys. Some will have seen their range of face and body care products in Boots, while others have read about their luxurious spas with relaxing and beautifying treatments. And then there are the very lucky ones who have actually been there...

hampneys Tring Spa Resort is a Rothschild stately home, set in 170 acres of beautiful parkland, once owned, during the 14th Century, by Ralph de Champney from whom the name originates. It was first opened as a health farm in 1925 by the celebrated naturopath, Stanley Leif, who pioneered the concept of holistic wellbeing until he sold the house in 1950. Today, it is owned by mother and son team, Dorothy and Stephen Purdew, whose spa chain is one of the biggest in the world and includes Henlow Grange and Forest Mere. Dorothy received an OBE in 2008, for services to the Health Spa Industry. Nowadays people from all over the world visit Champneys Tring, not only to enjoy its outstanding range of treatments and unrivalled facilities, but also to soak up a little of its wonderful history. In addition to the state of the art spa facilities and services there is also the opportunity to enjoy tea in the elegant drawing room, take a stroll around the manicured gardens and sample the delicious cuisine. Champneys offers a range of different packages from Spa Experience Days and Evenings, to Spa Break Packages with overnight stays (One night pamper Break from £249, includes: accommodation, two treatments, unlimited use of resort facilities, up to 20 different classes per day and a nutritious dinner, breakfast and lunch). You can take part in a range of activities and classes from Pilates to Kriotherapy (moving around in a cold chamber, in temperatures as low as -135C; apparently very good for you!) to Acupuncture and lots more. We went as Day Guests and on arrival in the morning were welcomed by Alison, one of the beauty therapists, who took us on a tour of

Hot Stone therapy

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

The spa has several airy seating areas where you can relax between treatments the house and spa facilities before supplying us with robes and flip flops for our day. We then booked any classes and treatments that hadn’t been pre-booked and were advised of our lunch reservation. Our day package included a treatment and Mr T. had chosen an invigorating Bamboo Massage, while I opted for a Hot Stones massage and decided to treat myself to a Luxury Pedicure as well. We made the most of our stay by trying out a couple of classes which I enjoyed very much. One of these was Ashanti yoga held by a very flexible lady called Esther, who had been practising Yoga for 40 years and certainly knew her stuff! By the time we’d had a coffee, done our tour and taken part in a Pilates class, the morning had slipped away and the tempting aromas of the restaurant were calling! I have never seen such a wide and varied selection of delicious salads accompanying the healthy hot and cold dishes on offer. The food was superb and worth the visit by itself! After lunch it was time for our treatments, my Hot Stone massage was the perfect way to soothe away aches and pains and sent me

into a blissful state of sleepiness, whilst Mr T’s Bamboo massage was somewhat more invigorating being designed to help with lymphatic flow and stretch out any muscle tension and tightness. “It was almost painful at times,” he said. “Although my legs felt great afterwards. I think I’ll go for something more relaxing next time though!” Whilst I enjoyed my Luxury Pedicure, Mr T tried the massaging hydrotherapy jets in the mineral rich Thalassotherapy pool, which he rated as very pleasant. Before we knew it our day of rest and relaxation had come to an end - far too quickly for my liking!! Champneys Tring is a stunning resort, the facilities are excellent and the surroundings are beautiful. There is so much to experience that a day there is far too short, although we did leave feeling relaxed and recharged. Oh well, may have to book for an overnight stay next time... l Champneys, Chesham Road, Wigginton, Nr Tring, Hertfordshire, HP23 6HX Reservations / booking: 0843 3162222 Email reservations@champneys.com Website: www.champneys.com

Mr T. takes a last look at the Thalassotherapy pool

The Rothschild mansion from the back. The white conservatory is a pleasant café with sun terrace

l Column: Hero Brown Muddy Stilettos

Hero Brown swapped the bright lights of the big city for fresh air and farmers markets. She now blogs about life in the sticks at www.muddystilettos.co.uk and shares her urban take on country living with Vale Life Magazine. The votes for her inaugural Muddy Stilettos Awards have just been counted...

Ladies and gentlemen, your votes have been counted and the winners of the Muddy Stilettos Awards 2013, are...

’m exhausted. Spotty. Sleep-deprived. And - I can’t deny it! - a teeny bit chuffed. The Muddy Stilettos Awards started as a gentle idea to support local business, but two months, 10,000 votes, 100 finalists and, most importantly, 20 winners later, my Awards have shown how much we all care about our local indie shops and services. If you missed the circus, March saw a month of voting, with thousands of nominations cast. They all needed to be checked out. I did a whole lot of dashing around during the Easter holidays, dragging my two youngest children around dozens of hotels, coffee shops, fashion boutiques etc. The places had nothing in common except that my kids were brilliant at screaming and fighting in all of them. The interiors stores were the worst, because small children love itty bitty knick-knacks, vintage kids toys, and delicate pieces of furniture that screamed ‘Jump on me, I’m really breakable!’ But finalists were finally finalised - I honestly thought I’d never write a sentence like that, let’s

just admire it for a moment - and then the second round of voting took place. Hilarity in the Muddy House as we started to notice some mega-multiple voting going on by overzealous fans of certain businesses, with one email address logged a whopping 72 times. But I had the technology, baby, and the 71 votes were discounted in the final count up. The competition was tight and leads changed daily in some categories. The Local Producers, well represented by Aylesbury Vale businesses, were battling to the death Made by Mums, Orchard View Farm and Cici Coco were fighting it out via social media. Same in Interiors, with a dogfight between LASSCO in Milton Common and The Old Flight House near Bicester. Hartwell House spa was flicking rose water at Marlow’s Danesfield House. The delis were flinging olives, with Thame’s Umberto’s shielding oily missiles from Wendover’s No2 Pound St. Frankly it was all very exciting. But every competition needs its winners,

Vale Life : May/June 2013

The Muddy Stilettos Awards Winners 2013 Best Café: Gyre & Gimble (Buckingham) Best Gift Shop: FROM (Thame) Best Fine Dining Restaurant: Le Manoir aux Quat’ Saisons (Great Milton) Best Online Retailer: Ten Mile Menu (Speen) Best Day Spa: Danesfield House (Marlow) Best Women’s Boutique: Vanilla (Oxford) Best Vintage Fashion: The Old Flight House (Weston on the Green) Best Florist: Moss (Buckingham) Best Interiors Store: LASSCO (Milton Common) Best Boutique Hotel/B&B: Hope House (Woodstock) Best Fitness Instructor: Emma Redding (Thame) Best Large Hotel: Hartwell House (Aylesbury) Best Beauty Salon: Oasis (Great Missenden) Best Deli: Umberto (Thame) Best Local Producer: Cici Coco (Cuddington) Best Bar: The Tree House (Beaconsfield) Best Destination Pub: The Fishes (Oxford) Best Casual Dining: Turl St Kitchen (Oxford) Best Children’s Store: Gorgeous Giggles (Princes Risborough) Best Men’s Fashion Store: Gallant (Thame) and above are the victorious few in the Muddy Stilettos Awards 2013: Many congratulations to the winners, and sincere thanks to everyone who voted. Go and check out these fantastic places, they’re all brilliant. And let’s make a date to do The Muddy Awards bigger and better next year. How about a cool little events bash to jolly things along for 2014? Read Hero’s award-winning blog at: www.muddystilettos.co.uk

Representatives of winning businesses gather at Hero’s (front centre) to celebrate their success - cheers and congratulations! Photo by Paul Wilkinson

Vale Life : May/June 2013

Column: Chris Gallagher ‘Fitness Focus’

Vale Life : May/June 2013

What’s the fast way?

veryone wants to know what the secret is. Whenever something in life is hard won, whatever it is that requires time, effort, dedication and patience - we all want to know what the short cut is. There must be a closely guarded secret to success. This is never truer than when it comes to diet, exercise and the way we look. You see a friend, a family member or colleague who has dropped a lot of weight, gained muscle mass or whatever their fitness goal is and you want to know what hidden methods allowed them to achieve it. And so we enter the murky world of dieting. There are an impossible number of fad diets that have attained pop-status over the years. If you are reading this you have probably tried the Atkins’ diet, South Beach diet, or Cambridge diet - the list is endless. The latest popular nutritional plan to come to prominence is that of intermittent fasting. There are numerous variations of this diet,

from a 5 and 2 eating plan (5 days a week you eat normally but on the other 2 you consume a massively reduced number of calories), to daily fasting within a 24 hour period (e.g. Not eating from teatime one night until lunch time the following day). Essentially, you alternate periods of normal eating habits with short periods when you consume only water, low calorie drinks or small portions of whole foods. It is not yet fully understood whether it is something intrinsic to the fasting process that helps people achieve weight loss goals or whether it is merely due to the associated calorie restriction. Either way, the fact remains that many people do achieve success on this kind of nutritional strategy and it is becoming increasingly popular amongst fitness enthusiasts and the industry as a whole. Research on this topic is in its infancy and most evidence in support of intermittent fasting is anecdotal. Intermittent fasting can be an effective tool if you wish to enhance

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you weight loss efforts. It is a good way of reducing your body’s fat mass and if you are exercising regularly and still consuming enough protein you can maintain your muscle mass and give your body a more defined and muscular look. It can work for guys and ladies looking to shed the pounds or anyone looking to lean up for their summer holidays on the beach. But it is not the only way of improving your body composition. Diet is undoubtedly the major factor in attaining the body you desire, but that does not need to mean fasting. There are many other nutritional strategies that will give you the same results and will be more enjoyable. Make sensible, healthy choices, exercise and you can achieve the results you seek. Intermittent fasting may also be a no-no if you are regularly physically active, have a demanding job or play sports. I wouldn’t much fancy getting stuck into some hard physical labour whilst being incredibly hungry. As we said in the beginning,

Chris Gallagher

Fitness Focus when it comes to nutrition everyone wants to know what the big secret is. How come others are successful when you are not? Those who achieve their desired goals do not have any tricks. They have a good work ethic, dedication and patience. They apply sound nutritional strategies and exercise interventions. Intermittent fasting can be one of those nutritional strategies but it is not the only one and it isn’t for everyone. l Chris Gallagher is Fitness Director of PT-Results, Aylesbury Web: www.pt-results.co.uk www.facebook.com/Personal TrainingResults, Twitter: @ PT_Results

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Providing the ultimate salon experience

What’s new at Eclipse girls grab top spots

Eclipse stylists have snipped their way to a second and third place in the Span Training and Development Awards. The hairdressing training provider supplies bespoke training programmes to over 120 hairdressing salons across the South of England, so competition was fierce. On the day over 250 spectators watched 67 contestants compete in 4 categories. The stylists had to create their hair-up styles without the aid of electricity - so no hairdryers or heated tongs - and interpret the theme ‘Don’t Tell the Bride’. Results ranged from blushing, ultra-glamourous brides to scary vampires and zombies! Eclipse Principal Designer Sam Probets was judged an impressive 2nd in the Open Category while Eclipse Graduate designer Emma

Sam left and Emma right with their bridal themed models styled her way to 3rd place in the Level 3 Category. “We are so pleased for both our our Eclipse girls on winning places in such a big competition,” says Salon Director Vicki Krol. “Well done girls! Keep up the great work!!”

Style icons inspire for contest The theme ‘iconic hairstyles’ was the inspiration for an Eclipse in-salon hairstyling competition in February.

Guest judge - former Charles Worthington salon director and Vale Life Magazine Beauty Columnist, Amanda Trott, said the evening was ‘fantastic fun but extremely difficult to judge’. “The creativity was excellent, the girls had put a lot of effort not only into their model’s hair but also into their mood boards and overall looks.” There could only be one winner for each category though. Congratulations went once again to Sam in the Stylist section and in the Junior section, to Kelly. “A big well done comes from all of the team and our thanks to your fantastic models,” says Vicki.

Welcome!

Sam, left, did a modern take on ‘The Mohican’ while Kelly, right, went ‘Nicki Minaj’ for the recent Eclipse in-house styling competition

“We would like to welcome our new Principal Designer Amanda to the Eclipse team,” says Vicki. “Amanda will be at the salon on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and we are all very much looking forward to working with someone who has so much experience in our amazing industry! Amanda is Vidal Sassoon trained

and has been hairdressing for nearly 30 years. She has worked for Haringtons, managed Charles Worthington’s Covent Garden salon and has run her own salon and freelance hairdressing business. She worked on London Fashion Week and has demonstrated at hairdressing shows and seminars in the UK and in Europe.

50% off her! Until the June 1st Eclipse is offering all NEW clients 50% off their first Cut and Finish with Graduate Stylist Kelly! The offer is available every Wednesday, Thursday and Friday (children not included). Simply quote ‘Grad50’ when booking your appointment.

It’s a bit of a giggle!

Once again the Eclipse team threw themselves into the spirit of Comic Relief this year with a Pyjamas and Wacky Hair Day and cake sale, raising £224.03. “We would like to say a huge thank you to all of our clients who donated,” says Salon Owner Louise Dockery, “It was a lot of fun!”

Promotion Buy 2 Redken products and receive, FREE OF CHARGE, either a travel size Full Effect mousse, Powder Refresh or Control Addict Hairspray!

Eclipse Hair Design, 56 North Street, Thame, OX9 3BH Tel: 01844 260062 Web: www.eclipsehair-design.co.uk Email: info@eclipsehair-design.co.uk Follow us on Twitter: @eclipsethame and Facebook Eclipse Hair design

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Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Our House by Melanie Parr

Wall decoration, Cargo Homeshop

Where to get the look... Tillynilly 01844 220035; info@tillynilly.com; www.tillynilly.com Lucas Furniture Rabans Lane, Aylesbury, HP19 8RE; 01296 486255; www.lucas-furniture.co.uk FROM 16 Cornmarket, Thame, OX9 2BW; 01844 217998; www.fromroundhere.com Ginger Interiors 10 Duck Farm Court, Station Way, Aylesbury, HP20 2SQ; 01296 415035; www.gingerinteriors.co.uk David Shuttle 6 Duke Street, Princes Risborough, HP27 0AT; 01844 273388; www.davidshuttle.com John Lewis Home Holmers Farm Way, Cressex Centre, High Wycombe, HP12 4NW; 01494 462666; www.johnlewis.com

Create a summer garden indoors with a flurry of butterflies, a few creepy crawlies and plenty of foliage

f your fingers are of the pink rather than Harlequin’s green variety, and you don’t know your Kallianthi. Curtains are also Hellebore from your Hydrangea, a good way of bringing in Door handle, never fear, the interiors shops touches of foliage to add John Lewis depth to the look. are full of luscious leafy designs to create a garden indoors. And You needn’t restrict the garden look to the living room. Continue there’s plenty to bring the look it into the kitchen with Le Creuset alive, with beautiful butterflies and bugs to create a botanist’s pots and pans in serene Fennel and Natural History’s gorgeous mugs, delight. plates and tea towels adorned with Winged wallpaper comes courtesy of Osborne & ferns, beetles, moths and Napoleonic bees. Little’s Farfalla butterfly print, Designers Guild’s Clock, Ginger Interiors Meanwhile, At Home in Buckingham stocks the beautifully textural Mateus range of Butterfly Parade and Vivienne butterfly ceramics. Westwood’s Insects design for Cole & Son. Or try a fronded backdrop, such For furniture, colonial-style pieces perfectly complement the botanist look - think Lloyd as Sanderson’s Woodland Ferns or Loom wicker chairs, shabby chic tables and Lantern, Cargo Homeshop

Natural History Various stockists, including At Home in Buckingham; FROM in Thame, The Studley Green Garden Store in High Wycombe; and Decorus and Relics of Witney in Witney At Home 1 Well Street, Buckingham, MK18 1EW; 01280 430148; www.athomebucks.co.uk Local fabric and wallpaper specialists:

Farfalla wallpaper by Osborne & Little

Peter John Barclays House, Gatehouse Way, Aylesbury, HP19 3DB; 01296 398301; www.peterjohn.co.uk Greens of Thame 5 Upper High Street, Thame, OX9 3ES; 01494 462666; www.greens-furnishings.co.uk

Wall Art, Ginger Interiors

Cromptons Interiors 2 Kings Head Parade, Wendover, HP22 6DX; 01296 623575; www.cromptonsinteriors. co.uk

Lloyd Loom chair and butterfly cushion, John Lewis

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Insects wallpaper by Cole & Son

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

white-painted iron bedsteads. For Lloyd Loom, head to Lucas Furniture or John Lewis, or for shabby chic pieces, try White Hart Studio (15 Churchway, Haddenham, HP17 8AB) or LASSCO (London Road, Milton Common, OX9 2JN). Or why not reupholster a chair or sofa in rich green leafy fabrics such as Harlequin’s Arkona Weaves, Sanderson’s Angel Ferns or Villa Nova’s Delaware? As always, accessorising is always the easiest way to complete the look, or if you’d prefer a toneddown version. Butterflies have landed on everything from cushions to clocks this season, so you won’t have much trouble tracking down Moorcroft vase, pieces to suit your scheme. Continued overleaf David Shuttle

Cushions, Natural History

Folia fabric collection, Harlequin

tillynilly

Selection of Le Creuset in Fennel, John Lewis

01844 220035

info@tillynilly.com

creative home interiors

Continued overleaf

The Gallery Stoneworld in Thame is the home of our fabulous hand-blown glass vases. Visit during June with this advert and receive 20% discount on any tillynilly glass vase.

tillynilly design service includes Curtains, Soft Furnishings and Blinds ▪ Alterations ▪ Re-upholstery ▪ Occasional furniture ▪ Interior design support ▪ Choose from our fabric or supply your own ▪ Free measuring and quotation ▪ Installation available www.tillynilly.com for more information. Telephone 01844 220035 or email info@tillynilly.com with your enquiry

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Our House by Melanie Parr

Continued from previous page John Lewis’s Botanist range includes butterflystrewn cushions, parasols deckchairs and bed linen – even door handles – while Ginger Interiors has clocks, wall decorations, napkin holders, jewellery stands and cake stands, all festooned with butterflies. Also head to Cargo for fun tealight holders, lanterns and cushions, while David Shuttle has more traditional Moorcroft vases adorned with swirling Red Admirals. Clockwise (from above): Butterfly bed linen, John Lewis; Butterfly ceramics by Mateus from At Home; Arkona Weaves fabric by Harlequin; Butterfly votive, At Home; Babbington chair by Lloyd Loom at Lucas Furniture

Above and below: Rimini furniture and Botanist cushions and parasol, John Lewis; Butterfly Parade wallpaper, Designers Guild; plates and mug, Natural History

l Melanie Parr is a home interiors journalist with many years’ experience on a range of well-known homes magazines. If you have a features idea, please email editor@vale-life.co.uk or follow on Twitter @melaniejparr.

Audited, Vetted & Approved by Buckinghamshire County Council Trading Standards

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Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Redhead or follically flame-boyant? Your time is now. Cash in on those auburn locks with a great offer from Ginger Interiors...

The Ginger Interiors team

Clare Jones

ylesbury store owner, bubbly red-head Clare Jones, has decided to give fellow Tango-tops a treat by offering a special discount to all ginger-haired people visiting her gift and homeware shop for the Summer Stock Preview day in May. Clare’s Ginger Interiors Shop is at Duck Farm Court, in Aylesbury and the Summer Stock Launch takes place on Sunday, May 19 from 10am to 4pm. When her two children started school

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full-time in 2007, the local mum decided to pursue her lifelong dream of building her own business and opened a furniture and household emporium at Duck Farm Court. Clare cleverly combines internet sales with an ever growing local clientelle and the business has built rapidly over the last six years. Clare now employs eight people from the area. To meet increasing demand, Ginger Interiors is to extend opening hours, from the 19th of May, to include Sundays, and to mark the occasion Clare has decided to hold a

SUNDAY 19TH MAY 2013 11AM - 4PM TEL: 01296 415035 WWW.GINGERINTERIORS.CO.UK

AYLESBURY’S INDEPENDENT RETAILER OF FAIR TRADE, INTRIGUING INDOOR & OUTDOOR ACCESSORIES

8 DUCK FARM COURT, STATION WAY, AYLESBURY HP20 2SQ

‘Ginger Day’ event when anyone with ginger hair (all shades) can enjoy a 10% discount. “It’s not just redheads who are invited to the preview though,” says Clare. “Absolutely everyone is welcome!” Clare, whose auburn hair is as bright as her personality, does not just champion minority groups with a ginger theme though: “Our shop is known as Aylesbury’s Aladdin’s Cave,” she says. “We stock ethical and unusual items and source products from around the globe. We are passionate about reducing poverty through trade so we sell Fairtrade crafts amongst our designer gifts.” Sourcing items for those that want to browse something different on a weekend means Clare is constantly attending National craft fairs as well as encouraging purchases with a local provenance. Husband Duncan, often helps out with operations, packing up Fairtrade gifts to be sent worldwide. They even posted an item to Buckingham Palace recently. Ginger Interiors offers customers a full seven-day money-back guarantee and will happily give shoppers help and advice before and after their purchase. The store also operates a sourcing service, so feel free to get in touch if you are looking for something specific or if you have any queries. l Ginger Interiors, 8 Duck Farm Court, Station Way, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP20 2SQ. Tel: 01296 415035 Email: shop@gingerinteriors.co.uk Web: www.gingerinteriors.co.uk Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

It may be unfair to generalise but while us British boast a sense of humour, the Italians just ooze style. Scavolini kitchens are now available from the Stoneworld Gallery in Thame where their stunning new display of traditional and contemporary designs is quite simply, magnifico...

nown as the ‘beautiful Italian’, Scavolini is one of the world’s most significant manufacturers of custom kitchens and bathrooms with over 1000 showrooms across 60 countries. Like Stoneworld it is a family run firm, originally founded by brothers Valter and Elvino Scavolini in a little workshop at Pesaro in 1961. Their small range of fitted kitchens immediately proved popular and the business has been expanding ever since. The company embraced leading-edge technologies and worked with specialist designers and by 1984 had became the leading kitchen supplier on the Italian domestic market and was known as ‘la cucina più amata dagli italiani’, or ‘Italy’s favourite kitchen’. Now 52 years old Scavolini is still Italy’s leading kitchen brand but the firm’s influence has become global, although surprisingly not so well known in Britain, as yet. Scavolini is large company now, overseeing complex production processes that create kitchens of high quality and value for households of all cultures and tastes, and aims

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Scavolini: Baltimora to satisfy its customers most varied, demands in terms of styling, functionality, safety and durability. Stoneworld is now supplying and fitting Scavolini kitchens across the local area and has a selection of their designs on display on the first floor balcony at Stoneworld Gallery in Thame. The kitchens are a fabulous addition to the Stoneworld showroom, which now offers a stylish range of home and interiors options from their huge selection of internal stone flooring, kitchen worktops and splashbacks, to hearths and fireplaces, glass art by Jessica Ecott, photography by Nick White and an

exciting contemporary range of homeware and furnishing by tillynilly. “There’s plenty to see at the Gallery,” says Stoneworld’s Sonia Davies. “All are welcome to come in and browse. Val, our Gallery Manager is on hand to answer any questions you may have with regard to our stone, art or homeware, whilst I am available to talk you through the Scavolini range, and if you have a project in mind, I can create a kitchen design for you.” Scavolini kitchens are factory built, rather than handmade, which keeps the cost down but they can make units to measure too, so there are bespoke possibilities with regard to

Scavolini: Tetrix

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Scavolini: Tess individual items. The innovative company is constantly coming up with fabulous new designs and great fittings and finishes. They have recently been working with fashion brand Diesel which has resulted in some exciting ‘New York loft’ style kitchens with finishes that include leather, slate and wired glass. Scavolini units are built in Italy and arrive fully assembled, while worktops can be ordered from Italy or from the Stoneworld granite range. If you are in the market for a new kitchen and would like to see what a Scavolini design would look like in your home, Stoneworld will come and measure up and can then, with the latest computer aided design technology, generate a 3D image to demonstrate how your chosen units will look in place. Once this is on the Stoneworld system it is quite simple to change colours and finishes, or even the chosen range, to see if something different would appeal more. Of course Stoneworld are best known for sourcing and delivering a vast range of

high quality, natural stone materials whether for garden designs, building projects, pool edgings, or interior flooring, worktops and fireplaces. They have state of the art cutting machinery at their Great Milton workshops and can shape stone to your specifications, incorporating amazing shapes and detail. Whether this is to craft a new kitchen worktop, a new fireplace surround, a sculpture or name plaque, or to copy an existing architectural feature that needs mending or duplicating, almost anything is possible. They say ‘when in Rome, do as the Romans do’, so when in Thame, why not have a stroll around the Stoneworld Gallery, marvel at the stunning old chapel architecture, enjoy the art on display, peruse the homeware and then pop upstairs to checkout the Italian glamour, a little bit of La Dolce Vita will do you good!

The Gallery Stoneworld, 43A Upper High Shop online for home,lStreet, garden Thame, Oxon, and OX9 2DWgifts Tel: 01844 279307 / 01844 279274 www.tillynilly.com/store Email: sales@stoneworld.co.uk

tillynilly homeware

Website: www. stoneworld.co.uk

Photography by Nick White

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

l Column ‘In the Garden’ with

Naomi MacKay

Sound the retreat

s a man’s shed really his castle? More than 70 per cent of men say they’d rather spend time alone in the garden shed than talking to their wives. And less than one in five actually used their time in the shed for gardening duties - instead listening to sport on the radio or reading the newspaper. The results (which may or may not be surprising to you!) come from a survey of married men who attended gardening shows organized by Aztec Events across England. “We will be showcasing the Ultimate Man Shed at the Blenheim Palace Flower Show (Friday 21st - Sunday 23rd June) based on our research,” says Aztec Events director Matt Upson. “Many men see their shed as their own space and it’s interesting to see what simple pleasures they enjoy inside those small wooden walls.” Despite this evidence, it seems to me that sheds are becoming more girlie these days. And they’re certainly more than just a functional wooden box. Just take a

Other ideas for your shed If your shed is just a dumping ground for junk, consider turning it into a useful space. If you’re short of space indoors, it could be turned into an office area, with a suitable heater, desk and chair – great if you need to find a quiet spot to concentrate in. If you can’t bear the mess of the kids’ arts and crafts indoors (or don’t have a suitable area for them to get messy in) consider using your shed as an extra playroom for messy activities. Obviously, garden tools will need to be stored safely and securely out of the way. If you’re overrun by recycling bins for glass, paper and so on, indoors, maybe they could be kept in the shed. Tempted to get rid of that old exercise bike? Don’t – simply turn your shed into a home gym!

Establish ownership

Retro shed painted in 50s-inspired vintage colours look at the Gothic beauty from the aptly named Posh Shed Company, right. This is one shed that you won’t want to hide away at the back of the garden – especially when you’ve paid £2,018 for it. The shed has been finished in Sadolin’s Superdec Hudson Bay. If you haven’t got the funds to have a posh shed, you can always take a leaf out of the Posh Shed Company’s book and jazz up an existing shed with garden paints. Fifties vintage shades are really popular at the moment – take a look at the vintage inspired candy tones used on this average garden shed to turn it into a thing of beauty

g -I gMk nge Ra

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Gothic shed from the Posh Shed Company (not that my shed is ever that tidy!). Forest Mushroom, Rhubarb compote and Mediterranean Glaze are the colours of choice from Cuprinol and Hammerite. If this is all getting a bit girlie for dad, maybe the kids could make a sign for his garden getaway in time for Father’s Day on June 16 – or you could order one from Gallery Thea (www.gallerythea.co.uk

l Naomi Mackay is a freelance journalist who works on national consumer magazines, newspapers and websites. She is running a series of workshops for local businesses on writing for the web, social media and learning about the mysteries of SEO. Prices start at just £30 a delegate if you quote code VLMar13. Email naomimackay@gmail.com for details.

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Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

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Many of us would like more living space but moving home or building an extension are costly solutions. Today conservatories come in many different forms and are very different to the hothouses of yesteryear, offering the space and comfort of an extension for a fraction of the price...

t is reassuring to see that while the fast-moving, high-tech world of conservatory technology moves ever forward, the names used to describe these stylish, modern living solutions hark back to bygone days. There’s Loggias and Orangeries and traditional conservatories based on Victorian and Edwardian designs. Technology is king now though and advances in glass manufacturing, insulation and frame science means that your new living space stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter. It can be a sleek and ultra-modern structure with glass walls and bi-fold doors to seamlessly join outdoors and in, or, in the case of ‘The Orangery,’ an additional room with plastered walls, which feels more like part of the original structure of your home, and offers versatile additional space for a wide range of uses, from kitchen or lounge to luxury garden room. At locally based family firm Crendon Conservatories Richard Warner has been quick to incorporate the latest options into his range: “A modern conservatory can give people the additional space they need,” says Richard, “but in some cases it will be virtually half the cost of an actual extension. With the insulative qualities of modern glass and clever blind technology these rooms can be enjoyed all year round. “The Livin Room, Orangery and Loggia designs, which you can see on our website are more like actual rooms than conservatories. They combine plenty of natural light and sky, with the solidity of corner columns and internal plastered walls and ceilings, to create a real room feel. “We offer a wide range of traditional conservatories, all benefitting from modern glass and frame technology and the option

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Foundations and base are down, brickwork is underway of aluminium, timber or UPVC construction. From the classic elegance of Victorian or Edwardian, to the subtle simplicity of a Lean-To, we have a conservatory style to suit all budgets and tastes and a wide variety of colour options available to complement your home.” Business has been brisk for Crendon Conservatories since Vale Life first wrote about the firm last Summer and Richard has expanded his team of craftsmen to cope with demand. Richard’s father Les is a skilled builder, carpenter and groundworker, with a wealth of conservatory experience. He manages the building and construction side and ensures that the work is of the highest standard. This often includes landscaping and paving outside too. Richard employs a regular team with a variety of skills and a couple of specialists - plasterer Keith Handshaw and electrician Barry Smith - while Melanie Brown runs the office. Richard liases with clients and designs and manages the smooth running of each project. He is not afraid to get his hands dirty though, so can often be found on site driving a digger or wheelbarrow if required! “I prefer to keep things in-house,” says Richard. “We aim to provide a top quality, friendly, personal, and local service. There’s no pushy sales team to deal with, I am here

The finished job with paving

Above, Richard Warner, right, plasterer Keith to listen to our customers’ ideas and offer suggestions as to the best ways of achieving what they would like, within their budget. I then see that project through to completion. “It’s an exciting time to be involved in conservatories, there’s some fabulous new products available, from traditional to new and very different. We have computerised design software that can show you what they will look like attached to your home, so you can see how different styles and colours might suit. See our website if you are looking for ideas, that extra room can make such a difference and it’s just a phonecall away now!” l Crendon Conservatories Ltd, New Stables, Notley Farm, Long Crendon, Buckinghamshire, HP18 9ER Tel: 01844 208605 Mobile: 07724624016 Website: www.crendonconservatories.co.uk

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Vale Life : May/June 2013

Sponsor of Chinnor Rugby Club

Falling foul of the law is a frightening prospect, so if you find yourself facing prosecution it makes sense to have the best professional help. After all your livelihood and even liberty may be at stake...

n many cases, I don’t think clients get the service they deserve from law firms these days.” says solicitor Darren Rogers. “They are not made to feel part of the team. They are part of the process but under-utilised and not empowered to be, or feel, of value in their own defence.” Darren specialises in Criminal Defence, Strategy and Tactics and has just launched his own company, Chiltern Law, to offer those facing criminal prosecution a meticulous and efficient, high quality, personal service. “I fell in love with criminal law and defence when I was 16,” says Darren, who grew up in Kingston Blount and attended Lord Williams’s school in Thame. “A friend’s father was a successful barrister and I became interested in his work. He introduced me to Robin Dukes, a fine advocate and brilliant solicitor, who offered me the chance of work experience... I was hooked!” Darren gained a degree in Law and Business at Hull University and then completed a Legal Practice Course at Oxford Law School. He joined local law firm, Blaser Mills in 1997, qualifying two years later into their Criminal Department. It was an exciting time and Darren quickly progressed, to become a partner in the firm in 2002. He was initially based in High Wycombe before moving to the Aylesbury office, where he became Head of the Criminal Department and was also given overall responsibility for the firm’s trainee solicitors. “Over the years I have gained in knowledge and experience,” says Darren, “but found I was having to focus more and more on bureaucracy and administration instead of concentrating on the needs of my clients. In setting up my own company, I am taking things back to core values: client focus, professionalism, personality and excellent criminal defence will be Chiltern Law’s focus. “I am now 41 and fortunate enough to have an amazing son, whom I enjoy watching ignore me, while he plays his PS3! I want him to remember me as someone of character who stood up for the values he believed in and I am determined to provide a first class service for my clients. 32

Vale Life : May/June 2013

The con

Darren lives in Aylesbury and has based Chiltern Law at offices in Henley on Thames. It is a private practice and will not be undertaking legal aid work. Darren specialises in Criminal Law and Motoring Law and has experience of defending clients charged with everything from speeding to murder and rape. “I pride myself on my professional integrity and am totally committed to defending my clients no matter what the allegation or charge,” says Darren. “I have developed expertise in most areas of the criminal law and have advised on major crime, complicated appeals, general crime and motoring offences. I also have the necessary aptitude and attention to detail to scrutinise and analyse MTIC fraud and other such cases. I advise on many aspects of motoring law from causing death by dangerous driving, to careless driving, driving with excess alcohol, failing to furnish information, reaching 12 penalty points, driving while using a mobile phone, defective vehicles, no insurance and driving whilst disqualified.” Most people rely on their driving licence and could lose their job or suffer a reduced

income if disqualified, so it is important to get the best possible advice to keep it. There are various defences or special reasons for not losing your licence which may apply in certain circumstances and Darren has successfully represented drivers on numerous occasions. When facing criminal allegations it is important to have the correct advice as soon as possible and Darren is happy to attend the police station if you are being questioned as responding in a certain way initially can mean there is insufficient evidence to charge. No matter what the circumstances Darren is determined to offer a supportive, personal, client centred service and this is mirrored in the Chiltern Law website, which not only provides information about the firm but will soon have a section where clients can login in and see how their case is progressing. Contact Darren to find out how Chiltern Law can help you. l Chiltern Law, Coxon House, Newtown Rd Henley-On-Thames, Oxfordshire, RG9 1HG Tel: 01491 848822 / 07886 777784 Email: djr@chilternlaw.com Website: www.chilternlaw.com

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Emails and texts are fab but many businesses still have use for a fax machine. Local firm faxtastic! offers an easy-to-use PC based fax service with no need for a faxline, fax machine, or consumables...

axtastic! was founded in 2003 by Adrian Mardlin, right. Something of a local internet pioneer Adrian set up his own local ISP, Nildram, back in the days when most of us did our browsing at the library or shops! Nildram grew into a successful and highly regarded UK-wide business and is now owned by Talk Talk. Originally part of The Very Good Email Company (Adrian’s email hosting business), faxtastic! has mirrored much of the history and success Adrian had with Nildram, even at one point occupying the same office buildings in Tring (albeit on a different floor) and many of his current staff have worked with Adrian since the Nildram days. Instead of having a fax machine and a dedicated phone line, faxtastic! provides you with a fax number (or you can move your existing one across) which then delivers all your faxes directly to your email in pdf form. The faxes are stored securely in the faxtastic! Control Panel for 90 days, so you can access them whenever you need to. Faxes can even be delivered to as many email addresses as you like for no additional charge. Faxtastic! can provide a local geographic number for just £30* per year (*see end for £15 Vale Life offer), much cheaper than paying line rental and filling up a bulky machine with paper and toner. Because faxes are in electronic form, rather than paper, they are easier to manage and store, making the service far more useful and flexible than your old fax machine, as well as saving you money.

Adrian Mardlin

To send a fax, simply purchase some sending credits (which start at only 5p each) and email your document to the recipient’s fax machine (faxnumber@send.faxtastic. co.uk). You will receive a confirmation of the transmission within a few minutes. Faxtastic! will keep trying for ten minutes if the fax machine you are sending to is engaged (saving you the trouble). If the document you are faxing is not on your computer it will need to be scanned in or digitally photographed and transferred to Send and receive faxes on your computer

your PC. “As in the Nildram days, we pride ourselves on being the human face of technology and providing a first class service,” says Adrian. “Delivering technology that works and providing an excellent customer experience from our friendly team here in Tring. Good support makes all the difference - we can’t stand sitting on hold and ‘pressing 1 for this, 2 for that’, so we don’t expect our customers to have to either!” For Vale Life readers who would like to try the faxtastic! service Adrian is kindly offering a 50% discount off the first year with faxtastic! - that’s a top value fax service for just £15*! All you have to do to claim your discount is sign up online via the faxtastic! website at: www.faxtastic.co.uk and enter the code VALE1 during checkout or give faxtastic! a call on 01442 927397 and mention the Vale Life offer code. *Prices subject to VAT. l Faxtastic Ltd. 8 Akeman Street, Tring, Hertfordshire, HP23 6AA Phone: 01442 927397 Fax: 01442 540248 Email: sales@faxtastic.co.uk Web: www.faxtastic.co.uk Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Vale Life : May/June 2013

Video is everywhere. It is hugely popular for recording special events and occasions, an increasingly important educational and marketing tool for businesses and a vital part of many websites. If you want high quality professional visuals though, you need to get Sorted...

orted Media Productions is an Aylesbury based independent production company, owned and run by Andrew Coulton, pictured right. His firm creates bespoke visual media; from corporate, promotional and product videos to wedding and event videography, music videos and short films. They also design websites, with or without integrated video options and are happy to undertake projects small and large, with rates that won’t break the budget! “We cover every aspect of the process,” says Andrew, “from an initial idea, through development and production, to the highest quality end product. We are a small independent firm with low overheads though, so are able to offer a high quality personal service and product at very competitive rates. “The websites we design are bespoke tailor-made sites which meet the highest validation standards and our films, using the latest in HD digital technology, are setting the benchmark for high quality visual media. I strive for perfection and am very particular. I like to make sure things are done right and personally see our jobs through from start to completion. I want everyone to be happy.” Andrew is a skilled cameraman, producer and editor. At school he was interested in IT and electronics and went on to gain a first class honours degree in television and film production at Staffordshire University, during which time he took a year out to work for a local TV company. He has been designing websites for clients since he was 17 and founded Sorted in 2011 at 21, while still at college, producing videos and designing websites in his spare time. By the time he left he already had a small client base and passed his degree with flying colours, despite taking

Andrew Coulton time out twice to film jobs in Spain during his final year! Since qualifying Andrew has gained experience in a variety of sectors from commerce to motor racing and music with exciting highlights such as filming bands like Mumford and Sons, and Florence and the Machine with Polar Media and the Nicholas Mee Racing team taking part in the Silverstone Britcar 24 Hour race. Examples of his work are on the Sorted website. “Video is an important medium for modern companies,” says Andrew. “Whether it is on a website homepage to demonstrate a firm’s products and services, or on YouTube as a promotional tool. Many companies now have their own YouTube Channel linking video clips to their websites. External links to your website from a video on YouTube, boost searchability and will increase your chances of being found. We can organise all this for you. “Promotional videos can be given out on DVDs or a USB stick, or shown on video screens in your reception or showroom, or at Viva Valencia: London to Valencia pink motorbike ride documetary

Vale Life : May/June 2013

an exhibition. Instructional videos for staff are useful training tools, while public relations videos can be effective in showing what a council or housing association is achieving. It’s a chance to be more personal and explain who you are. A video gives the opportunity to look around a company and see how it operates and if it’s a good quality video that reflects on the business, so it’s important your video is filmed with the best and latest high definition equipment and doesn’t look dated.” Being experts in video and website design means Sorted combine several disciplines and can offer a complete service: “We are a media house,” says Andrew. “we can take care of all your website and video needs.” Call Andrew to arrange a free consultation to discuss your video or website needs. l Sorted Media Productions Ltd, 13 Faraday Road, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP19 8RY Tel: 0800 803 0010 Mobile: 0778 978 0694 Email: andrew@sortedmediaproductions.com Website: www.sortedmediaproductions.com

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

You seldom see a teacher with a piece of chalk these days. Audio visual presentation has moved on at school, in the home and in the workplace, so if you need to get your message across, it may be time to tune in to some technical expertise...

David Lowey

’m an audio visual engineer,” says David Lowey, owner of Milton Keynes based Interactive Installations. “I’ve a technical background, I’m not a salesman, so I approach projects looking for the best technical solution. I’ll recommend the best products for a job and work with the customer to get the most satisfactory results for their budget.” Originally from Buckingham, David, 34, studied electrical engineering at Aylesbury College and then joined a local audio visual company. Having worked his way up to senior engineer, David decided to branch out on his own and after working as a freelance engineer for a couple of years, founded Interactive Installations in 2011. The firm supplies, fits and services a wide range of AV equipment from interactive whiteboards for schools and colleges - which these days are connected to a computer and function like a touchscreen monitor - to large user interface systems, which allow you to control every aspect of your seminar room, including lights and blinds, from a single control panel. “Most classrooms have whiteboards now,” says David. “Smart is a very popular brand, so much so that whiteboards in general are often referred to as ‘Smartboards’.” David should know, he is an accredited Smart board installer and has set up many systems both in schools and colleges and in local businesses for training purposes. Another development David can install

“

is the Soundfields system, which consists of a sound system and neck microphone which amplifies a teacher’s voice around the classroom, so he, or she, can be clearly heard without having to shout. Research has shown that while reducing voice problems for teachers, this system also results in students showing significant gains in academic achievement! “We do a lot of corporate work,” says David. “Flat screen TVs displaying digital signage are quite popular in reception areas and waiting rooms at the moment. You can have ticker-tape style information along the bottom of the screen with a video playing on another part of the screen and some text or graphic information on another section. Sometimes it’s information on the company, sometimes advertising for other firms. “We’ve fitted plasma screens in shop windows and installed interactive touch screen window displays. Being a small firm we offer a personal service and continuity, so when we return to service or upgrade your system the engineer is already familiar with your set up. “We offer service contracts too. Servicing AV equipment can seriously prolong its life - projectors in particular will last almost twice as long if regularly serviced and we can supply and install hire equipment for events and conferences - sound systems, screens, projectors, lighting - our technicians can operate the equipment too if required. “If you are planning an office refurbishment, or designing an exhibition

stand which will require audio visual elements we are happy to consult during the planning process and can help advise where and how screens can be supported and where cables may be hidden away.” For a small company Interactive Installations certainly tackle an interesting range of work. They once supplied an AV system for a funeral where the church was too small for the number attending and a TV relay of the service had to be filmed and fed to a screen in a nearby room, so people outside could see and hear. “I’m always happy to do a free site survey,” says David, “meet a client and understand their requirements. I can then offer advice on what can be supplied and achieved for a particular budget. Just phone up, or get in touch via our website.” l Interactive Installs Ltd Milton Keynes Office: 153 Harlow Crescent, Oxley Park, MK4 4EP Telephone: 01908 886 408 Email: info@interactiveinstalls.co.uk Website: www.interactiveinstalls.co.uk

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

l Column:

Ruby Rasa

hen the sun comes out, I start thinking about road trips. Every time I gas up my car, and the display tells me I can now travel 500 miles before having to stop again, my mind runs wild with the possibilities. I can’t help it road trips are in my blood. Growing up, our favourite (and mine still) was to drive the snaking coastal Highway 101 all the way from Seattle to Los Angeles. Day 3 was always a gastronomic wonder, starting with a lumberjack breakfast in the Northern California redwoods, lunching picnic-style among the vineyards north of Napa and, finally, crossing the Golden Gate Bridge in time for a sunset dinner at Fisherman’s Wharf. The San Francisco classic: clam chowder in bread bowls. I have recreated it here, with a few substitutions. Sourdough bread bowls are hard to find, so I take what I can get.

‘Tomayto Tomaaahto’

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100ml dry white wine 300g shelled cockles (or 3 jars, drained) 2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp pepper 1 round, crusty bread roll per person handful of parsley, chopped, to garnish What You Do: 1. In a food processor, finely chop the celery, onion, garlic and potatoes put them into a large saucepan.

Cockle Chowder in Bread Bowls (serves 6-8)

Instead of clams I use more local cockles. Finally, instead of sitting on the dock of the bay I carry a flask of chowder, a bread bowl each and a rug to the top of Coombe Hill. But still, if I close my eyes, I swear I can hear the foghorns in the distance.

What You Need: 3 sticks celery 1 onion 3 cloves garlic 1/2kg new potatoes 2 rashers streaky bacon (optional) 500ml stock (fish, vegetable or chicken) 100g butter 75g plain flour 600ml single cream 100ml semi-skimmed milk

2. Cut the bacon into short strips and add to the pot, then cover with the stock and boil gently for 20 minutes. 3. In another saucepan, melt the butter then add the flour, stirring it into a nutty brown roux. Slowly whisk in the cream and milk, then the wine. 4. Stir the sauce into the vegetable pot, add the cockles and season to taste. 5. Carefully cut off the tops of the bread rolls and gently hollow out the insides without breaking the crust. 6. Ladle some chowder into each bowl, garnish with parsley and serve along with the lids for dipping.

l Ruby Rasa blogs at www.tomaytotomahto.com

Win dinner for two at Scott’s Restaurant

n exciting new freshfood restaurant, Scott’s Restaurant at The Chiltern Hotel, has recently opened in Saunderton, near Princes Risborough, run by talented chef Scott Sandle, 33, (right). The Chiltern Hotel has an elegant restaurant and a comfortable bar and lounge area. Scott’s food is Classic British with a Mediterranean twist and split into an À La Carte Menu, a Restaurant Menu and a Bar Snacks Menu, which are small plates designed to be nibbled with a drink: Fried Whitebait & Tartar Sauce; Olives; Crispy Crushed New Potatoes & Aioli; Welsh Rarebit Soldiers; Spiced Pork Mince in a Toasted Brioche Roll... The Restaurant Menu is good gastro-pub style grub, presented

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Vale Vale Life Life :: Feb/Mar May/June2013 2013

in exciting and interesting ways and the À La Carte Menu is Rosette standard: “It’s good food done really well,” says Scott and served in a relaxed atmosphere, without any pretentiousness. We’re offering ‘affordable elegance’, good portions at reasonable prices and of consistently high standard.” The menu has plenty to inspire, from a 28 Day Dry Aged British Beef Carpaccio starter with Horseradish, Beetroot, Parmesan Crackling and Micro Herbs, through a main course of Pan Seared Scottish Salmon Fillet with Crab, Leeks & Sweet Pea Fricassee, Basil Infused Oil and New Potatoes to one of his amazing ‘de-constructed’ desserts, say the ‘Snickers Bar’- Peanut Butter Delice, Salted Peanut Brittle, Toffee Sauce and Milk Chocolate Ice Cream,

sounds delicious! Scott’s Restaurant is initially open evenings only, from 5.30pm-11pm (food orders taken from 6pm-9.30pm and on Sundays from 6pm-9pm). If you’d like to be in with a chance of winning dinner for two, with a bottle of house wine, at Scott’s Restaurant, simply email your name, address and telephone number, along with the answer to the following question to: editor@vale-life.co.uk What sort of twist does Scott give his classic British food? Winner to be drawn at random from correct entries and notified by

email by June 4th, 2013. l Scott’s Restaurant at The Chiltern Hotel, Wycombe Road, Saunderton, Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire HP27 9NP. Tel: 01844 345299 Email: info@the-chiltern.co.uk Website: www.the-chiltern.co.uk

l Column: Matt

Brown ‘One Hungry Gent’

Matt Brown Pig headed ONE Hungry Gent

his week I have discovered some deeply disturbing details about the minds of the inhabitants of the islands commonly known as New Zealand. The Government of NZ have, over the last few weeks, updated the list of names they deem unacceptable to name babies in their country. As of this week the names Prince, Queen Victoria and (god forbid) 4Real are all l Listen to Matt Brown on Heart off limits along with a further Breakfast With Matt and Michelle (weekdays 6-9am 102.6FM). 74 names. At present though you Tweet Matt at twitter.com/frazzleddaddy can call your New Zealand baby www.onehungrygent.blogspot.com either Adolf Hitler, Mr Mucky Flap Flap or Fanny Around, although I currently residing in the freezers suspect the authorities might take of a dozen unnamed families in a very dim view. the Aylesbury Vale area awaiting I was musing on the subject roasting, mincing, frying and of names this week BBQing. Now, one of the Runty had the because the pigs golden rules of keeping that we have been animals for meat is kick-ass go-getting looking after for the that you do NOT, under attitude of a Jackie last eight months any circumstances, Chan hero went off on their despite how funny it may holidays to the mystical seem, name them. We made a island of abattoir. They are big mistake a few years ago with

a sheep called Minty. Anyone who has seen the episode of The Simpsons where Homer raises Pinchy (a lobster) and then cries through every delicious mouthful will know what I’m talking about. So this year, no names no attachments. This time it was going to be ruthless, professional and clean. However, despite our best efforts one of the ten pigs managed to worm its way into our affections. It was a runt, much smaller than the rest but with the kind of kick-ass, go-getting attitude you’d expect from a Jackie Chan hero. This runty porker would muscle its way around the sty like it owned the joint (Mmmmmmmm pig joint). It was top pig and made sure the rest of the herd knew about it. So, naturally the runt became the most talked about pig, the one we would give a few extra scraps to, the porker who got the

most pats and scratches. Unnamed but very much loved. My wife, in particular, became very attached to Runty and would often pepper our evening conversations with tales of their exploits. And so we come to the horns of my dilemma. Each time we have pigs I always ask for a head so that I can make brawn and some amazing stock for gravies and stews. This time I was told that the head I had been given was, yes you’ve guessed, the head of Runty. I haven’t told my wife yet as I think she would find Making stock it all a bit upsetting. In fact, the first she knows about it will be when she reads this column. That’s right my darling, the gravy we had a week last Sunday was made from Runty and my god, wasn’t it wonderful? l Follow Matt on Twitter @ frazzleddaddy

GiFT bOUt A W ER, Ho Rs, Be hIP E h C VoU eRS MeMB ’S DaY Or A R aTHe FoR F

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

The Chequers takes pride in its warm welcome, service, high standards and superb food but it is fast gaining a reputation for wedding parties too...

The new patio

ritan Lani and his wife Ranka have run the pretty Chequers pub at Weston Turville, along with daughter Maya, for three and a half years now, building quite a reputation for Dritan’s excellent cooking along the way. The pub is to be found on Church Lane and dates back to 1640, although some of the beams are ships timbers from the 1500s! The Chequers boasts an attractive split level restaurant and a cosy flagstoned bar with open fireplace. The restaurant is smartly furnished in an informal modern style. Fresh flowers and stylish runners add a touch of elegance, while in the upper dining area Rattan flooring and contemporary prints add a sophisticated contemporary touch. Dritan and Ranka were brought up in Italy and Italian influences are still very evident in Dritan’s cooking - his handmade pasta is especially popular. He is an experienced chef, used to catering for large numbers and the pub often stages weddings and events, erecting a marquee on the front courtyard to cater for up to 150 people: “We can organise everything for your wedding party,” says Ranka, “food, decorations, DJ, linen, all you worry about is the guest list!” The outside of the pub is looking particularly splendid having just been Ranka, Dritan and staff from The Chequers

The restaurant repainted and the courtyard refurbished with new paving, furniture and planters. The Chequers is the kind of friendly local pub you can pop into for a pint or enjoy a Pimms on the terrace but it is the food which draws people from far and wide - it has been both runner up and winner of the Aylesbury Vale Village Pub of the Year Awards, Best Food Pub category over the last two years. There is a bar/pub menu (Tue-Sat, 12-6pm) and an à la carte restaurant menu that can’t fail to get your mouth watering - ‘starters are varied, desserts superb’ say regulars, ‘the medallions of beef are tender, filo pastry perfect, the apple crumble and poached pear classic’: “All our food is freshly prepared on the premises,” says Dritan, “bread, pasta, sauces... we have a Modern British menu which means we take the best of cooking from around the world and make it our own! Because the food is made here we can cater for certain dietary requirements too, so dishes

can be gluten free for instance, if required just let us know, in advance if possible.” Dritan’s steaks are legendary - he insists on the very best quality Aberdeen Angus and fresh fish is delivered every day with provenance as to when it was caught and where, ideal for his Fillet of South Coast Wild Bass and Black Pearl Scallops, served with a Creamy Sauce and Mashed Potato with a Hint of Wasabi, or Kiln-roasted Salmon served warm with a Creamy Sherry and Oyster Mushroom Sauce and Chips. With trade up 50% since they took over and bookings, including weddings, looking good for next year it seems people are voting with their stomachs! l The Chequers Inn, 35 Church Lane, Weston Turville, Bucks, HP22 5SJ. Tel: 01296 613298. Open Tuesdays-Sundays. Email: info@thechequerswt.co.uk Web: www.thechequerswt.co.uk

The bar

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

If you love a good curry but are bored with the same old dishes the new Little Kimble Indian Restaurant aims to spice up your life with an exceptional chef and some exciting new recipes...

he Crown at Little Kimble closed as a pub in 1999 and has since housed two Indian restaurants. Mohammed Hussain and wife Somirun, right, love the area and jumped at the chance to take over the premises earlier this year, to launch their own venture. The couple are both experienced restauranteurs, Somirun had her own restaurant in Earl’s Court while Mohammed has managed a host of curry houses both locally and around Amersham, Beaconsfield and Gerrards Cross. “I’ve been working around this area for 19 years,” says Mohammed. “I know the restaurants well, I created most of the menus, but here we want to offer something different, something new! I think people in this area are quite adventurous and like to try different things.” Mohammed came to England from Bangladesh at the age of 12 and grew up in the East End of London. He studied computing and electronics at college and worked part-time in restaurants. “I started in a Wimpey on Oxford Street,” he says, “and when I finished college I helped my elder brother out, at his restaurant. I really enjoyed it and it got me hooked! “Cooking always fascinated me, it was the late 70s and there were only a few Indian restaurants - most people didn’t know what curry was about! It was a very creative time though, Indian restaurants were all cooking different recipes, there was lots of regional variety. Now the industry is more standardised and the most popular dishes will always

Mohammed Hussain and wife Somirun

be on the menu, no matter where you go!” “I started in Chalfont St Peter in 1983 and worked in Beaconsfield and Gerrards Cross, Amersham and Chorleywood “Having worked in Indian restaurants for over 30 years, I know what people like and we have put together a menu at Little Kimble which you will find has all your favourites but also includes some exciting new dishes to try. “We have an exceptional chef, Rahman,

who joins us from a popular London restaurant and is creating some very exciting food here. We have an experienced manager too, Doraj, who previously worked in Berkhamsted and will ensure our customers enjoy the most friendly and efficient service.” The restaurant has been given a major refurbishment and is looking extremely smart. There are new fixtures, fittings and decoration from floor to ceiling. It has elegant booth style partitions which make it cosy and intimate in places but it’s big enough in others for large parties, with a comfortable bar and waiting area in between. “Our building has a nice shape and plenty of space,” says Mohammed. “We have lots of car parking too. We are mindful of the recession, so are keeping our prices low to offer value for money, but also good service, good quality food and a friendly atmosphere. “On Thursday night (6-11pm) we have a special banquet - £12.95 per head for: starter, main dish and side dish, plus rice or nan. “On Sunday we have a buffet lunch (12.303.30pm) - £9.95 (U12s £5.95, U5s free). “If people wish to come in for a drink and some nibbles that is fine. You don’t have to have a full meal. We have Cobra, Kingfisher and Carlsberg on tap and a full bar with beers, wines, spirits and soft drinks. “We also offer a takeaway service with free delivery within the local area. l Little Kimble Indian Restaurant, Risborough Road. Little Kimble, Bucks, HP17 0UF Tel: 01296 615245 / 615927 www.littlekimbleindianrestaurant.co.uk Open 7 days: Mon-Sat 12-2.30pm* & 6-11pm *(closed Friday lunch) Sunday: 12-3.30pm & 6-9.30pm).

Vegetable Thali

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

There’s not a lot of reading goes on at Aylesbury Literary Club these days, but there are plenty of other reasons why membership of this sociable old town group is still very popular...

iterary Clubs or Institutes were a feature of many towns in Victorian England where, for a small subscription, members could read books and newspapers and attend lectures. Aylesbury was no exception with a literary society established as early as 1833. The initial premises lacked room and Sir Nathaniel Rothschild was moved to commission a new building for the Club in Temple Street. Completed in 1880 and built in the popular Queen Anne style, it was decorated internally with oak panelling, gas chandeliers and a spacious staircase. The Reading Room occupied the ground floor with Library above. In 1903 the Club was extended when Nathaniel (now Baron) Rothschild agreed to build a new Social Club adjoining the Literary Club. Lady Rothschild laid the foundation stone for the extension as she had done for the original building over 20 years earlier these are both still visible under the large Aylesbury Literary Club is housed in the left hand side of 7 Temple Street, while The Temple Street Wine Bar occupies the right

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Aylesbury Literary Club bar and lounge front windows. The Club was licenced to sell alcohol - causing a dispute amongst members over whether a literary society and drinking club were compatible. A vote resolved the Club should supply ‘intoxicants’ although it was ruled in 1904 that the two clubs should be run separately. The Literary Club continued to provide a Reading Room and Lending Library, although the librarian woefully reported that the vast majority of books borrowed were ‘light literature’. The installation of electric lighting in 1916 saw a brief upsurge in membership but following the First World War, the Club faced increasing competition from other local libraries and found it difficult to raise funds. Book lending ceased and the Literary Club again merged with the Social Club and billiard tables were installed. Since the 1980s the private members club has let out part of the building, (you may remember Peggotty’s Dickensian themed restaurant and later Carlos’s Portuguese Restaurant) and a new wine bar and restaurant, Temple Street Wine Bar has recently opened on the premises. The books are mostly long gone now, but Aylesbury Literary Club still provides a sociable meeting place for business and professional people: “It’s a place to socialise with like-minded individuals in the heart of old Aylesbury,” says Chairman Eric Foster. “We are not a networking club but professional people, both active or retired, living or working in the Aylesbury area are welcome to join, make use of the facilities

and participate in our various activities. Our current member ages Literary Club range from 30 to 92! bar steward “The club is Guy Farrow open to members at any time, with the bar manned Monday to Friday, 12noon to 3pm and lunchtime snacks available. Upstairs we have two full size snooker tables for members use and hold regular snooker tournaments and an annual billiards competition.” Other activities enjoyed by the Literary Club members include trips to the races and for pub lunches, wine tasting, evening talks, an investment club, a bridge club, wine and cheese lunches, an annual ladies night dinner, golf days and this year, for first time, a clay pigeon shooting day: “Members can join in with any or none of our activities,” says Eric. “New members are always welcome. To apply pop into the Club any weekday lunchtime, email alc@aylesburyvale.net or call me on: 01296 484699, for an application form. Membership is currently £75 per annum, with a small extra charge made for snooker.” l Aylesbury Literary Club, 7 Temple Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 2RN Tel: 01296 423335

The club has two full-sized snooker tables

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Comfy corner for a glass of wine or a cocktail

Pick your way across the cobbles of Temple Street, mount the steps of the old Literary Club then slip through the curtains to the right of the stairwell...

he directions might read like a passage from Harry Potter but this hidden gem in Aylesbury’s old town is very much fact not fiction! Housed in the elegant Queen Anne style, Rothschild-built, Aylesbury Literary Club, The Temple Street Wine Bar enjoys historic surroundings. Light oak panelling, the highest of ceilings and huge leaded windows all hark back to a bygone era. The Wine Bar opened last Summer following a refurbishment of the premises and the look and feel is now a comfortable modern mix of natural wood, leather sofas and Rattan chairs. It is smart but not formal, relaxed and welcoming with quirky touches such as the German ‘wine glass’ chandelier, French vineyard

Wine glass chandelier

window print and extravagant gilt mirrors. Temple Street Wine Bar is owned by publican and restauranteur Dave Berry, who will be known to many as the man behind several other successful local ventures including The Crown at Cuddington (run by his son Andrew), The Seven Stars at Dinton and Annie Baileys in Great Missenden, which recently closed, due to the uncertaintly caused by the planned HS2 route. Dave, who many years ago had The Bottle and Glass at Gibraltar too, ran the original Annie Baileys in Cuddington before taking on The Crown! He is originally from Stevenage and having gained a degree in Hotel and Catering Management at Strathclyde University in the early 80s, worked for a while in Glasgow,

before heading back South. “I first came to Aylesbury in 1984,” says Dave, “and ran a wine bar at the top of Market Square. It’s a building society now! “I’ve always been interested in serving ‘good food’ in a really relaxed atmosphere. We’re not aiming for Michelin stars, but I like to be in the good pub guides. Good food, reasonably priced, served by friendly staff in a relaxed atmosphere. It’s what I’ve aimed for with all my pubs. “The difference with The Temple Wine Bar is that it’s a town bar not a country pub. Our crowd drinks more wine and cocktails than beer, especially on Fridays and Saturday when we get quite a few groups of girls in. Anyone is welcome though, whether for a drink, for a snack, or for a full meal.” The Wine Bar serves food all week, except for Sunday evenings when it is closed. It also has a tempting cocktail list - Slinky Minky or Mexican Mule anyone?!. There is one real ale and a premium lager on draught and a good selection of wines and spirits. The menu is Modern British, dishes such as: Fish and Chips with Tartare Sauce & Mushy Peas; ‘Burger, Chips & Salad’ and ‘Sirloin Steak Chips & Salad’; ‘Lamb, Dauphinoise Potatoes & Red Wine Sauce’; ‘Baked Gnocchi with Spinach & Gorgonzola Cheese’. There are also ‘Light Bites and Starters’, say ‘Baked Camembert’, ‘Salt Beef & Pickle Sandwich’ or ‘Whitebait with Lime & Dill Mayonnaise’ and of course roast Sunday lunch. Dishes come with vegetables, so you won’t usually need to pay extra for sides and are reasonably priced - around the £10-£15 mark for main courses. “So far it’s going really well,” says Dave. “Working with the Literary Club has been great. They are my landlords and lovely people too. They were really helpful getting the set up here just right and now quite a few have become regular customers too! l Temple Street Wine Bar, 7 Temple Street, Aylesbury, Bucks, HP20 2RN Tel: 01296 337228 Email: david@templestreetwinebar.co.uk Web: www.templestreetwinebar.co.uk Open from 12noon every day. Closed Sunday evening.

The elegant dining area and bar

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

We have some gorgeous local areas of natural beauty and none more so than Wendover Woods. But it’s not just the fab café and exciting treetop adventure trail that make it a top spot...

he Chiltern Hills is as rugged as it gets round here and Wendover Woods, straddling the chalk escarpment above Halton and Aston Clinton, is not only an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty but also the highest point of The Chilterns at 267m above sea level! The 814 acres of forest, while managed by the Forestry Commission for timber production, is a massive natural playground boasting walking trails, paths, a fabulous Café in the Woods, the Go Ape Tree Top Adventure Course, a forest fitness trail, a children’s play area, a treasure hunt trail, sound sculptures, a family cycle route, picnic areas, barbecues, horse trails, bike trails, an all-ability trail suitable for buggies and wheel chairs, public toilets and parking for 200 cars (small charge for parking)! There is an Iron Age Hill Fort on Boddington Hill and a wealth of landscape features from when the woods were part of the Rothschild Estate - Lime and Yew avenues, carriageways and flint retaining walls. There are also many species of plants, birds and wildlife to look out for. The woods are open every day, except Christmas Day, from 8am. The Café in the Woods is too, but from 9am-5pm in the week and 9-6pm at weekends and Bank Holidays. From the main road the woodland road leads into the forest for a mile at which point you will find parking, Go Ape and the Café in the Woods: “It’s quite a unique place,” says Café in the Woods owner Jon Warbrick, “There’s lots to see and do here, no matter what time of year, it’s popular with all ages.” Jon and wife Amy built the Café in the Woods seven years ago. The couple were both working in London, Jon as a marketing

Going Ape! Picnic tables at Wendover Woods with The Café in the Woods in background

Jon Warbrick

consultant, Amy as a forensic psychologist: “We wanted a different lifestyle,” he says, “and to run our own business. We were fed up with commuting and wanted to be more involved in the local community. We used to come up here and saw something was needed. It’s more than a café now, it’s become a real community hub.” The Café serves freshly prepared food at reasonable prices and wherever possible sources products locally. They serve good wholesome homemade food: jacket potatoes, soups (from Tring company Isalie), ploughman’s lunches, fresh sandwiches, paninis, toasties, locally made cakes, cookies, biscuits, Beechdean Icecream and hot and cold drinks, including some rather nice, freshly handroasted, Fairtrade, organic coffee from Smiths of Apsley. It also has free Wifi! The Café helps organise various activities such as treasure trails and works with the Green School which puts on bushcraft and wilderness survival skill workshops for youngsters. The Café also caters for educational groups, school groups and parties

and offers a special discount to all Go Ape participants. Of course the Café may be the highest point in The Chilterns but if you really want to live the high life, the only way is up! That’s up onto Go Ape’s exciting tree top adventure trail, where you can get in touch with your inner Tarzan and enjoy spectacular views across Wendover Woods from high up in the trees, while negotiating tree-top high wire crossings and wind-in-your-face zip wires! The Go Ape course takes 2-3 hours to complete and is great for families, birthday parties, stag parties, hen parties and corporate events. It is probably not ideal for those who are frightened of heights although it is said it can help you overcome your fear! The minimum age is 10yrs, minimum height: 1.4m (4ft7″) and maximum weight: 20.5 stones (130kg). It is recommended that you book in advance via the Go Ape website, see: www. goape.co.uk or call: 0845 643 9215. Gorillas (18 years +): £30. Baboons (10-17 years): £24. l Café in the Woods, Wendover Woods, St Leonards Road, Wendover, Bucks, HP22 5NF Tel: 01296 620294 (Café) Email: info@CafeintheWoods.co.uk Web: www.cafeinthewoods.co.uk l Go Ape booking line: 0845 643 9215 Web: www.goape.co.uk

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Wendover Woods

Go Ape - Mind the gap!

Win CAMRA’s Best Heritage Pubs book

A Parade through the Town Centre from noon Fete 1pm - 5pm at Southern Road Recreation Ground

thamecarnival2013@googlemail.com

dedicated positive inspired

new publication from CAMRA, The Campaign for Real Ale, highlights the hidden gems of British pub architecture with 270 pub interiors of outstanding historic interest. ‘Britain’s Best Real Heritage Pubs’ is a beautifully illustrated celebration of pub interiors, from rural time-warps and Victorian and Edwardian drinking palaces to inter-war boozers, that have altered little in the last 80 years. “Our pubs have been changed so much during the past half century that ones with genuine historic interiors are now incredible rarities,” says the book’s author Geoff Brandwood, of CAMRA’s Pub Heritage Group. “This book identifies the top 270 of these national treasures and presents a unique picture of the diversity of interior styles spanning a century or more. The book lists The Green Dragon at Flaunden and The Swan at West Wycombe as our two closest examples.

The book features full colour images of the fantastic interiors CAMRA is trying to help celebrate and preserve plus informative features about this unique British institution. If you’d like a chance to win one of three copies of ‘Britain’s Best Real Heritage Pubs’, simply email your name, address and telephone number, along with the answer to the following question to: editor@ vale-life.co.uk What is ‘pub’ short for? Winner to be drawn at random and notified by June 10th. l www.camra.org.uk/bestheritage

Tues 28th May & Tues, 25th June: Quiz Night £9 entry (includes supper). Teams of six. 7.30pm for 8pm start Sat, June 15th: Charity Night (Call for details) Sun, June 16th: Father’s Day (Special Father’s Day menu)

225 Aylesbury Road, Wendover, Buckinghamshire HP22 6BA Tel: 01296 623884 Email: info@villagegatewendover.co.uk Website: www.villagegatewendover.co.uk Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

All MAD images ©National Trust, Waddesdon Manor. Photographer: Stuart Bebb

MAD for music, arts, dance and drama? Then Waddesdon Manor is the place for you. Come the end of June the grounds are one huge performance space, buzzing with things to watch and do...

he MAD about Waddesdon festival returns at Waddesdon Manor on the weekend of Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th June 2013. Now in its eighth year, this annual celebration of music, art, dance and drama showcases the best in local talent of all ages, with 2,500 performers taking part over the two days.

Concert stages transform the gardens of Waddesdon Manor into an open air performance space ready for the groups, schools and individuals, both amateur and professional, that are waiting to entertain you for the festival weekend. Free workshops on offer this year include belly dancing and hula, musical theatre

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Fun for all the family at the MAD about Waddeson Festival again this year featuring songs and dances from popular West End shows, street dance, and even the youngest members of the audience will be encouraged to join in the fun with “sing and sign” baby classes. Fire performer Simon Chainey will be thrilling audiences on Saturday with two displays and is also offering free circus skills and street performance workshops on the same day. For children looking to burn off any excess energy there will be inflatable slides, bungee trampolines, and a climbing wall, plus face painting for the slightly less adventurous! Local artist Stu McLellan will be helping youngsters to get creative, with some hands on craft activities based at the Stables, taking inspiration from the amazing light installation Cantus Arcticus by artist Bruce Munro which can also be seen here. 2013 admission prices are £28.00 family, £11.00 Adult, £6.00 Child, NT members and children under 5 years admitted free. Admission price includes entry to the gardens and a souvenir programme, but excludes entry to the House. Visitors wishing to view the

House will need to purchase an additional timed ticket for this purpose in the usual way, either in advance online or by phone or via the Ticket Office in front of the Manor on the day of their visit. Following his hugely successful Waddesdon Manor debut in 2011, Jools Holland and his Rhythm and Blues Orchestra return in a concert taking place on Friday, June 28th, which will support the MAD about Waddesdon event for 2013, and features special guest star Roland Gift, the voice of Fine Young Cannibals. Gates open at 6.30pm, with the support act beginning at 7.45pm, and Jools Holland on stage from 8.30pm. Tickets are priced at £35.00 (child ticket £20.00, under 5’s free). For more information or to book tickets for MAD about Waddesdon or Jools Holland please see www.waddesdon.org.uk or call 01296 653226 (Mon to Fri 10am – 3pm). l Waddesdon Manor, Waddesdon, Nr Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JH Tel: 01296 653226 Website: www.waddesdon.org.uk

Photo by Mary McCartney

Jools Holland & His Rhythm ’n’ Blues Orchestra : Fri, June 28th

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

The Baby Race at Waddesdon is a great chance to enjoy the gorgeous Manor grounds while raising vital funds for Tommy’s...

uggyfit founder and organiser of the Aylesbury Baby Race, Emma Redding is excited to be hosting another Baby Race at Waddesdon Manor on Saturday, June 15th. “It’s a great event with such a fun atmosphere,” she says. “My classes in Thame and Waddesdon have women at all stages of pre and postpregnancy. Everyone has different goals, be it getting back in shape, getting fit, or just meeting other mums and the race at Waddesdon Manor is a great opportunity to get some exercise together at a stunning venue. We’d love to see you there!” Far more exciting than your average stroll in the park, Tommy’s Baby Races give families, friends and even your little ones the chance to actively help Tommy’s charity (www.tommys. org) give more babies the best start in life. Tommy’s believe it is unacceptable that one in four women loses a baby every year. The charity wants to give every baby the best chance of being born healthy, so works to fund medical research into the causes of premature birth, stillbirth and miscarriage, and provides a free information service that educates all parents-to-be about health in pregnancy. Tommy’s information service is informed by medical research and includes Tommy’s PregnancyLine telephone midwife service, a comprehensive website and free books and leaflets promoting health in pregnancy. The PregnancyLine is open Monday-Friday and also offers support for those needing emotional counselling

following the loss of a baby or a pregnancy complication. Their aim is to halve the number of babies who die during pregnancy or birth by 2030. Now in its second year, the Waddesdon Manor Race, organized in partnership with the pre and post-natal fitness experts, Buggyfit, is an 8K event to run or power walk with baby in buggy and takes place on Saturday, June 15th from 10am. Along with babies and buggies, hundreds of like-minded mums and dads - or other relatives who want to take part - can power walk or run the 8k course. The route begins with an aerobic warm-up, and the race begins in front of the main house before taking you through the beautiful gardens of Waddesdon Manor, renowned for its hidden treasures and landscaped grounds. Upon crossing the finish-line, each participant will be awarded a specially branded bag-for-life which includes goodies from sponsors: Cow & Gate and Forever Friends, as well as other leading brands. With children’s entertainers to keep little ones happy, the event is something the whole family can enjoy. Top fundraisers can win Water Babies swimming lessons, a scooter or even a balance bike. Tommy’s asks each participant to try and raise £50 sponsorship - enough to pay for one of its midwives to speak to and help up to 20 worried parents. If 200 runners were to manage this, the £10,000 raised would be enough to pay for a research assistant on one

of the charity’s vital research projects. Jane Brewin, Chief Executive of Tommy’s, says: “The Baby Race is a wonderful and unique excuse to get the whole family out and about for a worthy cause. What is special about this event is its contribution from such a range of individuals, from tiny babies to dads and pregnant women. We value each and every one of our supporters. It is their dedication, effort and enthusiasm that allows Tommy’s to continue to make progress in our research and continue to save thousands of babies’ lives.” To register for the Baby Race, just visit www.tommys.org/babyrace Entry costs £14.50, which includes your T-shirt, bag for life and training plan. Those without buggy and baby, and pregnant women are also welcome to take part. Pregnant women should check with their GP or midwife - let them know the distance and whether planning to run or power walk, with or without a buggy to get their expert advice first. l Buggyfit is an outdoor fitness class created for postnatal Mums to exercise with their babies in the pram or buggy. The classes incorporate cardio vascular and fat-burning exercises with strength training and toning, with great social and mental benefits too. Local classes are run in Thame, Waddesdon, Stone, Haddenham and Princes Risborough. To find a class near you or enquire about becoming a trainer visit www.buggyfit.co.uk or call 01844 202081. Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Artists and makers from across Bucks are once again opening their studios and joining forces for group exhibitions to showcase their skills, as part of the annual Bucks Open Studios event...

ucks Open Studios is a wonderful annual opportunity to experience first-hand the creativity going on around the County. Run by the Visual Images Group, an alliance of over 600 artists and makers living and working in Buckinghamshire, the event grows every year and for 2013 boasts a record breaking entry of artistic talent, endeavour and innovation. Work will be on display at various times from June 8th to 23rd at hundreds of venues across the county, and entry is free! So see: www.bucksopenstudios.org.uk for full details and locations, or pick up a brochure at a local library, arts centre or tourist information centre and plan your visits to at least a few of your local creatives.

A small taste of whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on offer! Obsidian Art, Stoke Mandeville From 7 June - 7 July Obsidian Art will host one of the largest exhibitions to celebrate Bucks Open Studios, featuring selected work by 17 artists and makers, as well as an exhibition by patients in the creative arts groups at the National Spinal Injuries Centre at Stoke Mandeville Hospital. Several of the artists will be at the gallery to Obsidian Art Gallery

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Nina Stallwood Tiggywinkles

demonstrate and discuss their work, including printmaking and pottery demonstrations. Displays include ceramics and sculpture, stunning fused and sand-cast glass, painting, paper-cuts, wonderful hand-crafted wooden clocks and stunning framed textiles. Obsidian Art is open from 10am to 6pm weekdays, and 10am to 5pm on Saturdays and Sundays.

Pauline Holt

l Website: www.obsidianart.co.uk Tel: 01296 612150

Art At Tiggywinkles Studios, Haddenham Group exhibition at the animal hospital near Thame. Meet the artists and see an array of inspiring art depicting a huge range of styles and media from textiles to painting, sculpture, photography and printmaking.

throughout the day. Watch the fascinating process of turning molten glass into a piece of wearable art jewellery.

l Tiggywinkles, Aston Rd, Haddenham, Bucks, HP17 8AF. Tel: 07901 517396 Website: www.stewartclough.com

l Middle House, 34 Grecian Street, Aylesbury, HP20 1LT (access to rear between 121/123 Tring Road). Tel: 01296 437406 Website: www.jazzylily.com

Pauline Holt - Jazzy Lily, Aylesbury: Hand Made Glass Beads & Jewellery Hot glass beadmaking demonstrations

l Bucks Open Studios Website: www.bucksopenstudios.org.uk Email: art@bucksopenstudios.org.uk Tel: 01296 614283

Helen McCarthy Tiggywinkles

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For the last four years a group of creative individuals, with a diverse range of talents, have joined forces in Little Kimble to demonstrate their skills and exhibit for Bucks Open Studios...

draw the movement of ‘Dancers in Motion’ from a box at the Covent Garden Ballet dress rehearsals, in the dark!” says Jane Waller. “As the orchestra strikes up, the curtains open and the lights in the auditorium go out, so I look only at the stage and the dancers and draw the movement they make. It is difficult, but I have been practicing life-drawing throughout my life - and I like the challenge. I put the actual programme at the back of my pictures as ‘provenance’ so that the owner of the work knows the exact ballet and time that my drawing was made. “Sometimes I add a little colour later - very quickly - to enhance the drawing; but other than that, I do not work more on the drawings afterwards as this spoils the immediacy.” Jane is one of eight artists making up the Little Kimble Art Group and exhibiting each year for Open Studios at Little Kimble Stewart Hall: Lielo Edwards makes stoneware pots of different shapes and sizes inspired by the forms she sees in nature. She is an expert at getting a great finish, using different textures and glazes to achieve her desired results, while the pots are frost proof and very suitable for home or garden. Nile Ateem works with digital and occasionally film photography. “I’m always looking for different forms of inspiration,” says Nile, “however my biggest influence for this exhibition is Aylesbury’s hidden night-time beauty.” (See picture right). Michael Spark has a great love of the outdoors, particularly trees. These feature in many of his colourful paintings. His image below right, is a new work ‘Line of trees #2’. “My inspiration comes from the Chilterns landscape,” says Michael. “Each piece is an investigation into colour, shape and form,sometimes abstract, sometime more natural and often a longer look can reveal more. Most of my paintings are acrylic on watercolour paper, oil on canvas, or gouache. At the Little Kimble show there will also be giclée prints and greeting cards.” Susie Upstone is a jeweller who finds her art a great stress-buster. “I make traditional jewellery,” she says, “mostly from silver, using a soldering torch, saw and hammer, to produce items for day and evening wear and

“

Jane Waller

Susie Upstone

Lielo Edwards

Nile Ateem to suit all budgets. I love texture, the colour of set stones, and enjoy incorporating unusual materials such as car paint and bowling balls!” New to the group this year is Rosalind Castling, an expert in the field of nuno felting, which she uses to make both pictures and wearable items. Her use of colour and form make her creations very desirable. She is extremely knowledgeable and is happy to answer visitors’ questions. James Watts, uses watercolours to picture local scenes, often of Oxford. His work, undertaken with a delicate touch, generally in slightly muted tones, captures the atmosphere of these scenes. They would look great in any venue. This group of established and new artists

Michael Spark is a great example of what Open Studios is all about. They will be showing a wide variety of exciting and well-produced artworks for all tastes and budgets from June 8th to 23rd. The exhibition is open Thursdays and Fridays from 1-5pm and Saturdays and Sundays from 10.30am-5pm. On Thursdays 13th and 20th June, there will be talks by the artists suitable for art students and school pupils and on Sunday 16th June, demonstrations by all the artists. On Sunday 23rd June, there will be a closing sale! Refreshments are available at the hall, along with excellent cream teas! l Little Kimble Art Group, The Kimble Stewart Hall, Station Road, Little Kimble, HP17 0XN Tel: 01296 622053 Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Welcome back to the Oxfordshire County & Thame Show! The event was sorely missed last year, so here’s hoping the sun shines until Saturday July 13th, when this year’s show will offer a fabulous day out for all the family, with lots to see and do and eat and drink...

he Thame Show is England’s greatest agricultural show and it takes place right here on our doorsteps at Thame showground, on the outskirts of the pretty market town. The organisers take note of suggestions and comments from show-goers and each year tweak the attractions and format to make it an even more enjoyable experience for those attending. This year in the ever popular Countryside Arena there will be demonstrations and displays throughout the day from the new Pig Agility and Horse Whisperer displays to the ever popular Falconry, Sheepdogs with Ducks, Terrier Racing, Ferret Racing and Gundogs. The arena will be surrounded by a superb selection of countrymen demonstrating their skills in hedge laying, stone walling, broom making, smithying and more. The Main Ring will host two top class show jumping competitions including the Oxfordshire Area Trial. There will be the galloping ponies of the Scurry Driving along with the Lamb National Sheep Race. There will also be the regular cattle parade along with classic cars, agricultural display and parade of hounds. The Band this year is the 1066 Pipes and Drums (Hastings) who will be performing twice. Around the showground there will be competitions for cattle, sheep, horses and donkeys along with displays of rabbits, birds, and alpaca’s. There will also be a fun dog show this year, for which you can take along your pet dogs and enter them on the day. The biggest change this year is the introduction of a Food and Drink Village where food retailers and local producers will

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

The con

be selling a wide range of food and local breweries will be selling their beer. The Food Hall will again be full of its usual delights and the ‘Home and Garden’ marquee, formerly ‘Domestic’, will have a number of new competition classes. The Thame Show grew out of a Ploughing Match first organised at the town in 1855. The event was a huge success with twentysix teams competing for eight prizes. It was decided to combine the match the next year with the annual Horticultural Society Show and it has continued to develop from there being given County status last year in recognition of its size, influence and 133 years of tradition. It has now been renamed The Oxfordshire County & Thame Show. Ticket prices are slightly different this year

being £13 in advance per adult (£15 on the gate) and £4 per Junior (5-15yrs, £5 on gate). Under 5s go free and Senior Citizens are £8 (£10 on the gate). Tickets are available from the Thame Show office, from local tourist offices and from the show website, where there is a list of other outlets across the area as well. l The Oxfordshire County & Thame Show, Thame Showground, Kingsey Road (A4129), Thame, Oxfordshire, OX9 3JL Tel: 01844 212737. Email: info@thameshow.co.uk Web: www.thameshow.co.uk

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

You’d be a twit to miss the splendiferous celebrations that make up Aylesbury’s annual Roald Dahl Festival, so make a note in your diary now, Saturday, July 6 , 11am in Market Square...

he spectacular annual Roald Dahl Festival is returning to Aylesbury Town Centre this July! Saturday, July 6 will be a unique day of fantastic family activities and entertainment celebrating the works of the internationally renowned author. One of Buckinghamshire’s largest events, this year’s is to be themed on the curious and amazing animals that live in Roald Dahl books including: the Mugawumps, the Enormous Crocodile, Fantastic Mr Fox, the Giraffe and Pelly and of course The Roly Poly Bird. This scrumdiddlyumptious day will be brimmed full of exciting hands-on art and craft activities, storytelling, theatre performances, live music, dance and much more, including the now renowned fabulous, fantastical and most colourful, carnival procession. The famous Roald Dahl Parade kicks off at 11am featuring a Magnificent Animal Menagerie including larger than life puppets and other original artwork created by over 500 children and young people from across the Vale. There will also be music and street theatre in the parade which features some of the region’s top Samba Bands. After the Parade there is plenty to see and do! Find a magical activity such as face painting and crafts at St. Mary’s

Church, Kingsbury and Market Square, take part in lively storytelling or Bounce and Rhyme sessions at Aylesbury Library and make woodland crafts or listen to the jazz band at Buckinghamshire County Museum, where you will also find the Roald Dahl Children’s Gallery. You are in for a ‘tweet!’ l The Roald Dahl Festival 2013 Website: www.aylesburyvaledc.gov.uk/dahl Tel: 01296 585301

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Danceaid: Sunday, May 26th

From the best of the West End to fundraisers and wedding shows Waterside Theatre is playing a vital role in bringing the arts to, and providing a stage for, our local community...

Creative Learning Northern Ballet Easter Project

And That’s Life: Sat, June 1st Activate Youth Dance 2013

2 50

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ince opening in October 2010 the Aylesbury Waterside Theatre has been committed to providing a rich and varied programme, bringing an exciting mix of comedy, dance, concerts, gigs and family shows along with international Opera and Ballet to the town. The theatre also serves as a community venue giving local people and groups the opportunity to perform on stage and use the venue for community events. From Flower Arranging demonstrations in aid of local charity Florence Nightingale Hospice, dance showcases including Just Dance and Activate Youth Dance Festival, Family Fun Days and Wedding Shows, the venue’s main auditorium and smaller Second Space have housed workshops and been used for amateur productions including the Thame Players’ production of Terence Rattigan’s The Winslow Boy and Karen Simpson Productions’ world première of The Incredible Dr Guttmann. Most recently the theatre’s Creative Learning team ran an Easter Performance Project culminating in a live main stage performance in front of a capacity audience. The project gave 8 to 12 year olds a unique opportunity to work with Northern Ballet artists to develop a brand new dance. Spring continues a feast of energy-packed Community Events kicking off with Do It For Danceaid on Sunday, May 26; a collaboration with local company Kidz Got Swagga, to bring Britain’s best dance talent to Aylesbury. Danceaid patrons and performers including finalists from Got To Dance, Britain’s Got Talent and So You Think You Can Dance will come together for the night, to make a difference - the volunteer-run charity harnesses the energy of dance to transform the lives of orphaned, poor and disabled children in the UK and abroad. Wycombe-based Jackie Palmer Stage School present And That’s Life on Sat, June 1st. Full of song, dance and adventure, the show tells the tale of a girl who discovers a box in her grandmother’s attic

full of mysterious things that capture her imagination, each recalling a life lived. It’s your invitation to join her and discover her grandmother’s past whilst looking forward to her own future. More dance bounds on to the stage with Tring Park’s Dance Show, To Dance with Gods. The senior dancers from Tring Park School for the Performing Arts perform in a specially created premiere of a new work inspired by an eclectic mix of songs and music, including Holst’s The Planets, performed live by the Watford School of Music Youth Orchestra under conductor John Brennan. A simple love story is set against a background of war; the fate of the couple is influenced by the Gods of the Planets who take them on a journey for which the battle to stay together is as hard as any being fought. Johnny’s Rock’n’Roll Show on Sun, June 2nd offers a very special night of great rock music from one of the UK’s most successful and archetypal progressive rock groups, Argent, best remembered for hits Hold Your Head Up, Since You’ve Been Gone and God Gave Rock’n’Roll To You. Members of The Zombies, Marillion and The Moon Dogs will also be out in force to support and help raise funds for Johnny Beer Timms, paralysed in a trampoline accident at the age of 16. This fundraiser will be securing funds to provide equipment for Johnny to retrieve some of the movement he has lost. June Highlight: Terence Rattigan’s undiscovered comedy gem Less Than Kind starring actors Sue Holderness (Only Fools and Horses / Green, Green Grass) and William Gaminara (Silent Witness) In this hilarious romantic comedy, steel magnate John Fletcher, has risen to the colossal challenge of out producing the Nazi war machine in tanks for D-Day and is in the last Main ima stages before he can leave To Dance

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the government to get a divorce from his unfaithful wife and marry his true love, the widow Olivia Brown. But an even greater foe enters the fray. Olivia’s son, returning from evacuation is now 17 and has joined the rising tide of socialists. He is outraged at the thought of his mum marrying ‘the enemy’. Can John get to his true love? Who will Olivia choose? This beautiful Terence Rattigan comedy lay undiscovered due to an accident of wartime Britain and is now brought to the stage by a personal friend of Rattigan’s, Adrian Brown, to mass critical acclaim. Win a pair of tickets to see Less Than Kind at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre! If you’d like the chance to win two tickets to see Less Than Kind on Monday, June 24th, at 7.30pm simply email your answer, to the following question, plus your name, address and telephone number to: editor@vale-life.co.uk by June 9th: What was the name of Sue Holderness’s character in British sitcom Only Fools and Horses? a) Eileen b) Kathleen c) Marlene Winner to be picked at random from correct entries and informed by June 10th.

l To find out more about hiring Aylesbury

Waterside Theatre for a Community event contact sarahlloyd@theambassadors.com To find out more about Creative Learning opportunities contact johncoughlan@ theambassadors.com

l Aylesbury Waterside Theatre, Exchange Street, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP20 1UG Telephone Booking: 0844 871 7607 Website: www.atgtickets.com/aylesbury

Right: William Gaminara and Sue Holderness star in Terence Rattigan’s Less Than Kind from Monday, June 24th

age - Tring Park: e With The Gods

Vintage glamour at a recent Waterside wedding show

Coming up at the Waterside Your at-a-glance guide to what’s on... NT Live: This House

May 16th

Street Life’s 30 Year Party

May 18th

Jimmy Carr: Gagging Order

May 19th

Nicola Benedetti and Oxford Philomusica

May 24th

Jack Dee

May 30th

Colin Fry

June 3rd

That’ll Be The Day

June 4th

The Dreamboys

June 7th

National Theatre - The Audience ( Live Screening)

June 13th

Rainy Days and Mondays

June 21st

Shaolin Warriors

June 22nd

Less Than Kind An Evening of Mediumship with Tony Stockwell Sofia National Ballet

Mon 24th to Sat 29th June July 9th Mon 8th to Wed 10th July

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Henley Festival is a magical occasion, a chance to don evening dress and sip Champagne on the banks of the Thames, enjoy art and theatricals and the music of some of the world’s leading performers, plus a thrilling firework display and it’s all for a good cause...

ow in it’s 31st year the Henley Festival is one of the UK’s most prestigious arts and music events. The line up for this year’s elegant and extraordinary affair boasts The Beach Boys, Madness, Jamie Cullen, Paloma Faith and Joanna Lumley, who is presenting ‘Shaken & Stirred’ - The Music of James Bond, with performances by The Royal Philharmonic Orchestra, recreating some of the greatest film scores and theme-songs in movie history, including: Diamonds Are Forever, Goldfinger, Live and Let Die and Skyfall - a great way to celebrate 50 years of 007 in sophisticated style! Since rising to fame in the early 60s, Joanna Lumley has become one of the most accomplished stars of her generation and is well known for her performance in the outstanding television series ‘Absolutely Fabulous’. In 1969 she starred in the 6th silver screen instalment of the James Bond series, ‘On Her Majesty’s Secret Service’ alongside George Lazenby, making her the

Paloma Faith 52

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Jamie Cullen

perfect host for this quintessentially British gala evening: “The very words ‘James Bond’ bring a rush of excitement to my heart,” says Joanna. “Even though it was 45 years ago, even though I really only had two lines in the film, I am as proud of being a Bond Girl as of anything else in my career. I can’t wait for this spectacular Bond Night on the river; as the evening progresses I shall of course be auditioning, fairly subtly, for a future role in another of these sensational films: and it need only be two lines...” Over five stunning evenings, the Henley Festival brings together an eclectic mix of music, visual arts, fashion, street theatre, comedy and fine dining to a stunning and atmospheric location on the banks of the River Thames. All the ingredients that make the Henley Festival absolutely unique are back this year, including a fabulous selection of international recording artists, and a most inspiring supporting programme. Don’t miss headline performances on the spectacular Floating Stage from: The

Madness

Beach Boys (NB concert will not feature Brian Wilson, Al Jardine or David Marks), on Wednesday, July 10; Jamie Cullum on Thursday, July 11; Madness on Friday, July 12; and closing the show on Sunday, July14; singer songwriter Paloma Faith. You’ll also find comedy genius Barry Cryer, actor/comedian Alexander Armstrong and the remarkable theatrics of Tubular Bells For Two, music from The Boxettes and Rich Hall’s brilliant comedy country Hoedown, a truly exceptional line up. All net profits go to the Henley Festival charitable projects. Under the banner of ‘Arts Inspiring Lives’ it promotes year round community initiatives, providing experiences via the arts to groups that may not otherwise have access. l Henley Festival, 14 Friday Street, Henley-on-Thames, Oxon RG9 1AH Box Office: 01491 843404 Email: info@henley-festival.co.uk Website: www.henley-festival.co.uk

The Beach Boys

by Cathy Soughton

Aylesbury Clock Tower

ou may have walked past it dozens of times but have you ever stopped to have a good look at Aylesbury Clock Tower? It was built in 1876 to provide a focal point for the Market Square and it was reported soon afterwards in the Bucks Herald that ‘a more beautiful ornament or a more useful building does not grace the Market Square of any county town in England’! Up until 1866 a large Market House had stood in the middle of the square. Following the building of the new Corn Exchange in 1865 the Market House was demolished, although the clock which had adorned the top (a gift in 1849 from Acton Tindal the Lord of the Manor of Aylesbury) was saved. Talks were held over the next few years about erecting a clock tower in the square, but the costs were considered prohibitive. Eventually at a meeting held in October 1875 attended by at least 400 people, a Clock Tower

committee was formed and it was agreed that the building costs should be funded by soliciting subscriptions from the townspeople. In total funds of £882 were raised including £104 from the sale of materials from the old Market House. There was heated debate as to where the Tower should be positioned; some thought it should be on the edge of the square but it was finally agreed that its natural place was in the centre. The tower was designed in a Gothic style, (very popular in the mid Victorian period), by architect David Brandon who had previously designed the Corn Exchange, and the Royal Buckinghamshire Hospital. The tower was built by local builder George Cooper in partnership with stonemason Frederic Cowles. Standing 64 feet high, it is constructed of brick and faced with stone from the Blackthorn quarry near Bicester, and finished

The Best Days of

your life

The Swanbourne House School family style boarding house, providing full and flexi boarding, is a place where: • High academic standards • Extensive sports coaching • A myriad of music and drama opportunities • Exciting activities programme • Mud, smiles, friends and fun

All come as standard! Bursaries available for Service Families.

Open Mornings Saturday 11th May 2013

Come and visit; you can be assured of a warm welcome. For details contact Mrs C Hollowday Tel: 01296 720264 Email: ofﬁce@swanbourne.org

www.swanbourne.org

Buckinghamshire MK17 0HZ IAPS, Co-education, Boarding and Day, Prep School for children aged from three to thirteen years.

with Bath Stone dressings. The four illuminated clock faces (including two saved from the Market House) were set under gables topped by a latticed bell chamber and a spire and weather vane. Two drinking fountains (long since disused) were placed at the base of the tower for cattle, sheep and humans! At a ceremony held on July 11, 1876 attended by hundreds of people the Foundation Stone for the Clock Tower was laid by Mrs Acton Tindal. The inscribed stone is still visible, as is a plaque commemorating the event on its centenary. The construction of the tower was finished in early 1877 but work on the gas fittings which illuminated the dials caused delays, not least as there was concern that they could cause an explosion! The tower was formally handed over to the Board of Health on June 25, 1877. Now maintained by Aylesbury Vale District Council, the gas fittings have long since gone and the clocks run electronically. Power sockets have been fitted to provide

Vale Life : May/June 2013

Aylesbury Clock Tower, Market Square, Circa 1880 electricity for the market traders but the Clock Tower looks essentially the same as it did when first built. It is still the focal point for Market Square and well worth a closer look. l This article was written by local genealogist and house historian Cathy Soughton www.bucksancestry.co.uk Email soughton@btopenworld.com Tel: 01296 624845

Horsewyse CIC Horsewyse Children’s Summer Activity Days

Days full of the great outdoors, including riding and other horsey activities, nature walks and arts projects. Suitable for riders and non-riders alike. Builds confidence and team-building skills. Special Art Days and a Riding Academy week will be held during the summer. For more information, visit the Horsewyse website or email horsewyse@btinternet.com Tickets: £25, available from Horsewyse

www.horsewyse.org.uk Tel: 01844 202966

Horsewyse CIC is a not-for-profit company providing equine facilitated learning for children and young people with learning and behavioural difficulties. Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Music Column:

The Factor with Carol Jenkins

Vale Life : May/June 2013

Rockin’ the Vale

Carol Jenkins

The Factor Carol is a journalist and and an ardent music fan She is also a presenter at Stoke Mandeville Hospital Radio. Listen to her live at www.smhr.co.uk Email: carol@vale-life.co.uk with all your gig news and comments she’d love to hear from you. Add gigs to our website: www.vale-life.co.uk click ‘what’s on, add an event’

Colin Blunstone, Jim Rodford & Rod Argent in action

Argent

magine being invited to a jamming session with Metallica, the Foo Fighters and Nickelback with Muse making an appearance during the interlude and you will have a good idea of what to expect from Aylesbury band Frowser. Described as a ‘modern but timeless fusion of heavy rock’, Frowser might have a familiar sound, heavily influenced by the musical glitterati headed by Grohl et al but rest assured, their sentiment is entirely original and they have a passion and an energy that sets them apart from most current bands in this genre. The four rockers, singer Jamie Waller and long time friends Rob Newman and Jatinder and Sam Balkhu are fast becoming hot property on the local music scene. They’ve notched up notable successes playing to packed houses in the White Swan, Shoot Pool and the Bucks Yeoman in recent months and it looks like 2013 could be their year. Jamie and Rob are natural front men and when they start rocking they make the Duracell Bunny look positively inert. Don’t be tempted to do the ironing to the sound of their latest album The Silver Shell Club though or your best bib and tucker will be toast. Despite their local roots and their love of packing out our best

Frowser local venues there’s not a parochial bone in these guys’ bodies. From the start they have aimed high and have toured the US delighting fans from Miami to Texas and New York. Bass player Rob told me that the group is ‘trying to convey the spirit of power and aggression in our music while at the same time making it accessible for people.’ ‘You’ve got to be able to let people understand what you are trying to achieve musically and it’s all about putting on a good show at the end of the day.’ With talent to burn, the boys still feel strongly that this should be underpinned by good old fashioned hard work; you won’t find them slacking off watching Ice Road Truckers of an evening – instead they meet at least two or three times a week to practice and perfect their art.

Singer/songwriter Jamie makes no apologies for dedicating his life to the band and is unequivocal about the fact that ‘if you want to be a musician and do what you do really well then you have to make sacrifices.’ All four band members are good friends and work together as a tight unit but they admit to having the odd heated disagreement and that passions can sometimes run high. These guys know what they want and they are no shrinking violets. In an age where Chico, Wagner, Jedward and Ryland are lauded for their lack of musical talent, it’s refreshing to see that there is still a healthy breed of talented musicians with ability and the will to succeed populating our local music scene. Check out Frowser by going to www.frowser.com and also on facebook.

reunion Spotlight on: Shoot Pool

ock giants Argent will reunite their original lineup for a one-off charity fundraiser at the Waterside Theatre on June 2nd. The band renowned for hits like ‘Hold Your Head Up’ and ‘God Gave Rock’n’Roll to You’, will take to the stage to raise funds to provide equipment to facilitate rehabilitation for 17year old Johnny Beer Timms from Aylesbury, left paralysed from the chest down after a tragic trampoline accident. Johnny’s father, guitarist Derik Timms, fronts blues rockers Moon Dogs and will provide support on the night along with Steve Hogarth and Steve Rothery from Marillion. Tickets from Waterside theatre: www.atgtickets.com/shows/ johnnys-rock-and-roll-show/ aylesbury-waterside-theatre/

Vale Life : May/June 2013

t might sound like a place where cowboys go to duel but this is no spaghetti Western - duelling guitars perhaps though as Shoot Pool is fast becoming Aylesbury’s premier new music venue. Opened as a pool venue four years ago, owners Alston and Sue Latham have been encouraging local talent to perform at the venue for the last couple of years. Thursdays is jam night when bands and singers perform to win a coveted place on the Saturday night billing, which is devoted to showcasing new artists, while Friday nights is for original bands. Self confessed music fan Sue is clear about the direction the venue is going in and although she acknowledges that customers will always enjoy covers bands - it’s the original music that puts bums on seats and gets happy music

Open mic at Shoot Pool fans ensconced at the bar. Her endeavours are a family affair as both her sons Kristian and Seb are talented musicians and no strangers to the Shoot Pool stage. “Our aim is to build Shoot Pool into the premier new music venue in Aylesbury,” explained Sue. “We know it will take time but we are really focussed on gaining a reputation as a venue that showcases new acts.” Being a small, independently-

run business with no big chain back-up, Sue has to work hard to get punters in and spending though. In these austere times, even music fans don’t go out as much as they used to. It is clear talking to Sue though that her commitment to promoting local music and musicians is unstinting. Check out the bar’s Facebook page for news and details of up and coming gigs and pop along to show your support. l Shoot Pool, Hale Leys, Aylesbury,

Bucks, HP20 1ST Tel: 01296 489712 Email: shootpool.aylesbury@ hotmail.co.uk See Shoot Pool facebook page for news: www.facebook.com/ shootpoolaylesbury

Column: Emma Ward‘Country Girl’

Crafty capers

Vale Life : May/June 2013

ver since Kirsty Allsop appeared on our TV screens with her ‘Homemade Home’, Britain has been all about crafting. The BBC has aired programs such as ‘The Great British Bake Off’ and ‘The Great British Sewing Bee’, with contestants sweating over their scones or having patchwork panics in an attempt to win the illustrious title (and probably a lucrative book deal). Traditionally the preserve of your gran, needlework has suddenly become the ‘in’ thing. Likewise, baking was something your mum did, not a hobby for successful 20-somethings. However, recently I too have fallen hook, line and sinker and surrendered to the crafters call! Admittedly, I had been halfconverted at an early age, as my mother is a seamstress by trade, and can turn her hand to anything creative. The Young Farmer’s Club (of which I am a member) are also well-known for their handicraft

Emma Ward

Emma’s fascinator

Silx painting competitions, so I have had an abundance of craft opportunities, from your ‘Pot of Homemade Jam’ type competitions at Bucks County Show, to the more obscure ‘Make an item of clothing from baler twine’, which I believe has appeared more than once at our annual rally. After all this, I still felt my creative talent wasn’t being stretched far enough though. My first foray was silk painting at Queen’s Park Arts Centre in Aylesbury. I have tried this before

Stagecoach Aylesbury: 01296 747758 aylesbury@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/aylesbury

Country Girl

Flower arranging but that was at secondary school and I had totally forgotten how to do it. Luckily, it is one of the simplest crafts, with lots of room for creative flair - even painting mistakes can look like they were supposed to be there! Our silk scarf will now be on display at the Queen’s Park Textile Festival Open Day on 12th May, along with many other silk designs. My second crafting challenge sprung from a requirement to save money! Every year our Young Farmer’s Club holds a Dinner and Dance, and every year we decorate the tables with flower arrangements. In the past we have paid a florist to do them, but after a quick lesson from an ex Young Farmer florist friend, we decided to do our own and save some pennies. We were pleasantly surprised, our efforts actually looked very respectable...I may even go so far as to say, they looked quite good! Last, but my no means least, was my favourite crafting opportunity of the past month; fascinator making, or ‘millinery’ as it’s officially called. This area of craft was totally unchartered territory for me, so I was looking forward to

the challenge. This was a whole day course run by Sally’s Sewing Box in Princes Risborough, and was part of a ‘crafting day’ at which you could choose a course from an extensive list, including needle felting, patchwork and quilting, crochet and more. At first I felt slightly out of my depth, being surrounded by ladies who were mostly ‘more advanced’ in years than me and so bound to have more experience. However, I needn’t have worried; yet again, my previous crafting stood me in good stead and by 4pm that afternoon, I had made a beautiful pink creation that I must admit I’m extremely proud of! I am now a complete crafting convert, and regular trips to Hobbycraft have become very expensive... but what to move on to next?? A ball gown would do quite nicely for the next YFC event and I have already started to re-upholster an ottoman for my bedroom. Move over Kirsty, Emma’s in town! Queen’s Park Arts Centre: www.qpc.org Sally’s Sewing Box: www.sallyssewingbox.co.uk

Stagecoach Thame: 01865 763767 thame@stagecoach.co.uk www.stagecoach.co.uk/thame

Summer Holiday Workshops

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Expert fitting into awkward spaces sssincluding under sloping ceilings Call for a brochure or to arrange a sssfree no obligation survey 01525 854142

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Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

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Petrol Station

and all other makes

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Independent Specialists covering

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Auto Torque, Unit 9, UBF Industrial Park, Bicester Road, Waddesdon, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire, HP18 0JX Tel: 01296 658257 Web: www.autotorque.net

l Column: On

The Road with Rob Auchterlonie

Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

A car called ADAM VAUXHALL ADAM

auxhall’s first entry into the fashion-led city car sector could be about to spark a mini (no pun intended) revolution in the way we go about buying our cars. ‘ADAM’ took its UK bow in a shopping unit at Westfield Stratford City, in the East End of London. And Vauxhall executives hinted they could be taking the new car to motorists all over the country in a series of ‘popup’ shops, where you, I, or more probably your fashion-conscious sister can just nip in to browse without the pressures of a car showroom. And obviously where there is no nearby Vauxhall dealer. A fashion item it certainly is, with the accent on personalisation. There’s a brain-busting combination of specification possible, so the chances of buying into something truly unique get better odds than your local bookie will offer you. Direct competitors are the Fiat

Rob Auchterlonie

ON The Road 500 and MINI, which both play the retro card, while Audi’s A1 goes for the modern prestige approach. It’s the latter image that ADAM is hitching its hat to, the modern interpretation of a city car, and on first impressions the verdict is positive. Possibly its most distinctive feature is the roof - or more accurately the fact that the roof doesn’t look connected to the body. There’s a subtle gap between the two, highlighted on versions with a contrasting roof, so there is no

Telephone:

01844 353388

40 Oakley Road, Chinnor, Oxfordshire, OX394ES (to rear of Claremont Automatics) Email: johnnixey@btconnect.com

Telephone: 01844 353388 l Bosch Car Service Centre l MOTs including Class VII (3.5 tonnes) l Servicing, repairs, tyres, exhausts and air

conditioning for cars and light commercials l Diagnostics: we have the most up to date work

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l High ceilings and long ramps enable us to service

long wheelbase vans, campers and trucks

obvious link between the A and C pillars. Clever. Then there are wacky names for the paint finishes like James Blonde, I’ll Be Black, Purple Friction - you get the idea here that ADAM sets its stall out to be a fun, funky machine. Even the ignition key is colour coded to the bodywork. There are three trim levels - JAM (fashionable/colourful), GLAM (elegant/sophisticated) and SLAM (racy/sporty) - and while there is no diesel option, you can choose from 1.2 70ps, 1.4 87ps and 1.4 100ps petrol units, all with a five speed gearbox. Prices kick off at £11,255 for a 1.2 JAM, up to £14,000 for a 1.4 100ps SLAM model. Vauxhall expect 93 per cent of sales to be retail customers, a lot of them attracted to the marque for the first time by ADAM’s

quirky appeal,and 60 per cent of customers are predicted to be female. Forward thinking technology introduced on ADAM includes a new £275 IntelliLink infotainment system that connects smartphones to the car - the first system compatible with both Android and Apple iOS, and one which is also apparently shortly to be used by McLaren. Every ADAM has the potential to be unique•and the ability to be personalised in more ways than any other car in mainstream production. Be prepared to spend a lot of time in that shop though - the possibilities are virtually endless.

‘It’s a fun, funky machine’

l Follow Rob Auchterlonie Twitter: @robauchy

Self-Drive Van Hirehire 3B Hire & Servicing, Townsend Garage, Thame Road, Haddenham, Bucks HP17 8BY Tel: 01844 291430 w car, van, mpv & minibus hire w vehicle servicing - all makes & models w car valeting w tyres, exhausts, batteries

www.3bhire.co.uk Vale Life : May/Jun 2013

Men’s barbers, 245 Main Road, Walter’s Ash, Bucks, HP14 4HT Men’s hair: £10.50 Wash & Cut: £14 Boy’s hair: £8.50 Crew cut: £6.50 Senior Citizen: £6.50 Under 5s: £6.50 Saturdays: all cuts £12

Email: suesflowers2@hotmail.com www.suesflowers.co.uk

Tel: 07742 361711

Open Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri: 9.30am to 5pm Sat: 7.30am to 4pm, Thur: closed

43b Buckingham Street, Aylesbury, HP20 2NQ Tel: 01296 423233 / 0800 298 8514

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OILSERV Oil Boiler Servicing and Repairs at a reasonable price.

Service £75

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Vale Life : Feb/Mar 2013

Contact Ian on: 01844 281256 07745 405453 Email: ianoilserv@aol.com

Based Near Aylesbury, sales stockist for Maypole Trailers, Streetwize Camel Trailers and accessories

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Andrews of Thame

K Collins Felt & Flat Roofing Specialist Local business, Roofmaster approved Established 1969

Painting & Decorating Property Maintenance

We also do slate and tiling repairs and chimney repointing

Call today for a free estimate 01296 655526 / 07831 465501

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R.W. PEARCE & SON LTD RO O F I N G C O N T R AC T O R S Established 1958 Specialists in re-roofing Period Properties, Country Cottages, Farm Houses and Barns, using traditional materials. Slating and tiling repairs undertaken.

Transforming

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Vale Life : Feb/Mar 2013

Watermark, Worminghall Road, Oakley, HP18 9UL Family run business designing, supplying and installing kitchens and bathrooms for over 25 years Our extensive showrooms are open to the public - do drop in Bring us your measurements for your Free kitchen or bathroom design

Handmade Bespoke Kitchens now on display